Research from the Journal of Lipid Research indicates that statins may not have the same benefit in people with a high level of a specific enzyme, with some in fact being more at risk for a heart attack.

Statins work by lowering cholesterol in patients who are, or may be, at risk for cardiovascular disease, but researcher Axel Schlitt found that the medicine was less effective in people who have high levels of the enzyme PLTP.

After following 1,000 patients with coronary artery disease for five years, the researchers found that “PLTP levels were a significant indicator” of patients who would suffer from a heart attack, even while taking the medication.

The researchers also noted that the percentage of statin users who did not suffer a heart attack was statistically similar to those who were not.

Those who may be looking for a natural way to lower cholesterol may consider a nutritional health supplement that includes niacin, as some studies have linked the vitamin to the ability to reduce levels of bad cholesterol in the liver while maintaining beneficial levels of “good” cholesterol.