Statin drugs are a popular way for people to lower their risks of heart attack and stroke. The drugs work to hinder the production of an enzyme in the liver that makes cholesterol in the body. Statins are sold under several different names, and they come in varying dosages.

A Consumer Reports analysis shows the costs of statin drugs can vary greatly. Monthly prescriptions can cost between $4 and $600 depending on which drug you choose, or whether or not a generic option is available. Considering that many people are on the drug over many months or years, it is important to know the options. Here are five poplar statin drugs:

ALERT: 4 Things You'll Feel Before a Heart Attack

1. Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium): Lipitor went on sale in 1997 with the claims that it helped reduce bad cholesterol more effectively than other statins, and it has become the best- selling drug of all time.

2. Lescol (fluvastatin sodium): Available since 1993, this statin comes in an extended release tablet. The dose range is between 20mg to 80mg daily.

3. Livalo (pitavastatin): According to its manufacturer, this statin claims to be “less likely to cause some drug interactions because it is metabolized differently in the body than other statin medications.”

URGENT: Assess Your Heart Attack Risk in Minutes. Click Here.

4. Pravachol (pravastatin): Consumer Reports lists this drug as a best buy for statin drugs.

5. Zocor (simvastatin): This drug is popular in the U.K. because it is cheaper than other statins.

Lower-cost generic versions of most statin medications are available.

ALERT: 4 Things You'll Feel Before a Heart Attack

Related Articles:

Cholesterol Medication: There Are Side Effects

Cholesterol and Heart Attack Risk Not Always True