A patient with hyperlipidemia is prescribed a statin medication. The patient asks the nurse how this medication will help him. What statement below is most appropriate for the nurse to make?

A. The statins increase HDL and decrease LDL by inhibiting an enzyme that synthesizes cholesterol in the liver: Statins inhibit HMG-CoA reductase, the enzyme responsible for cholesterol synthesis in the liver. This reduces LDL production and modestly increases HDL, improving the lipid profile and reducing cardiovascular risk. B. Increasing the synthesis of cholesterol in hepatocytes: Statins do not increase cholesterol synthesis; they inhibit it. Increasing cholesterol production would worsen hyperlipidemia, which is contrary to the therapeutic goal. C. Increasing the production of VLDL, the primary carrier of triglycerides: Statins primarily reduce LDL cholesterol, not VLDL production. Increasing VLDL would elevate triglycerides and exacerbate lipid disorders. D. Decreasing the number of LDL receptors in the bloodstream: Statins actually increase LDL receptor expression on hepatocytes, enhancing clearance of LDL from the blood. Decreasing LDL receptors would raise LDL levels, which is the opposite of the intended effect.