Statins

Statins are the mainstay of therapy for cholesterol.

Some of the bodys cholesterol is produced by the body rather than ingested through diet.

Thus, inhibiting this enzyme lowers cholesterol through a process different from dietary strategies.

Man sitting on couch taking medication

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Statins alsoreduce vascular inflammation, decrease vascular thrombosis, and improve overall vascular function.

Statins are usually well tolerated, but you’re free to experienceside effects.

The effect of these drugs is a therapeutic reduction of bad cholesterol.

They are often prescribed for those who havefamilialhypercholesterolemiaor LDL cholesterol levels that remain significantly elevated despite treatment with statins.

As a result, blood levels of LDL cholesterol are reduced.

Clinical trials with ezetimibe have been fairly disappointing, and the drug is not used often in clinical practice.

Clinical studies have yet to show that they improve outcomes.

Fibrates

Fibrates inhibit the production of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins in the liver.

Summary

Several types of prescription medications are available to treat cholesterol and lower triglyceride levels.

Statins are the first-line therapy for reducing cholesterol.

These drugs work by reducing the liver’s ability to make cholesterol.

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