Pravachol, for one, was scientifically shown to reduce the chance of heart attack. I think there may be another statin where this is true too.

Also, niacin has been shown to reduce chances of heart attacks as well.

While I think statins are nasty as all get go, and you wouldn't catch me taking another ever again, I can say this from 6 years experience taking them... 3 different statins... they have proven well for many. What I've researched folks taking statins (lipitor in particular as it appears most take this particular statin) have given it an overall 40% satifaction rating when you consider benefits verses side effects.

From your sonopsis of that author... sounds like quackery with no basis.