Atorvastatin belongs to which class of medications?

Atorvastatin is classified as a statin, which is a type of medication that is primarily used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Statins work by inhibiting an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a central role in the production of cholesterol in the liver. By reducing cholesterol levels, statins like atorvastatin help decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.

The other options do not describe atorvastatin correctly. Antidepressants are used to treat mood disorders, diuretics are medications that help the body get rid of excess fluid, and beta-blockers are typically used to manage heart conditions and hypertension. Since atorvastatin functions specifically to manage cholesterol and improve cardiovascular health, its classification as a statin is appropriate and accurate.