Statins are the most common class of drugs prescribed in America; more than 40 million adults take them, according to the Cleveland Clinic. But a new study in JAMA Network Open found that around 20% of high-risk patients don't take statins, even when their doctor recommends them.

An earlier study revealed that up to 50% of patients stop taking statins, reduce their dose, or take them irregularly because they believe the medication is causing muscle pain and other side effects.

That, say researchers, is an exaggeration of the incidence of serious side effects. They actually affect 7% to 9% of those taking a statin (and 5% to 7% of people taking a placebo).

Whatever the reason, when patients don't take their prescribed statin they're increasing their risk of stroke, heart attack, and death. Until now.

A new study shows that a Food and Drug Administration-approved medication called bempedoic acid effectively lowers bad LDL cholesterol, protecting against a cardiovascular events without causing muscle pain or other side effects.

How effective is this alternative medication?

The researchers found that bempedoic acid reduced cholesterol by 21% and lowered patients' risk of heart attack by 23%. It also lowered the risk of having a stent implanted or having bypass surgery by 19%.

It’s more expensive than statins, but most insurance companies will cover it if you've taken two different statins and experienced side effects from each.

If you're not taking your prescribed statin or experience unpleasant side effects, talk to your doctor about trying this alternative.