Cholesterol levels have been linked to heart and cardiovascular disease. Not all cholesterol is the same, however. Cholesterol is typically divided into low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which is known as the "bad" cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), which is the "good" kind. The goal for treatment is to lower LDL and triglycerides (essentially oils) in the blood and raise HDL levels.
Stains
One type of medications that is commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol is statins, which include atorvastatin and simvastatin. These medications prevent the synthesis of cholesterol by the body and, as a result, cause LDL and triglyceride levels to be lower while causing a slight increase in HDL levels. Stains can cause constipation/diarrhea, nausea, cramps and muscle pain or weakness.
Bile Acid Binding Resins
Bile acid binding resins include the drug cholestyramine. These medications cause bile acids to be eliminated from the body. Because bile acids contain high amounts of cholesterol, this forces the body to make more of them, using up its cholesterol reserves. Bile acid binding resins lower LDL levels in the blood and can cause constipation, nausea and bloating.
Ezetimibe
Ezetimibe is a medication that prevents cholesterol from being absorbed by the intestines. This medication primarily decreases LDL but also can slightly lower triglyceride levels and raise HDL. On the other hand, it can also cause stomach pain, muscle soreness and fatigue.
Fibrates
Fibrates include gemfibrozil and fenofibrate. These medications help speed up the rate at which cholesterol is broken down. Fibrates can lower triglyceride levels and increase HDL, but they can also cause stomach pain, nausea and gallstones.
Niacin
Niacin, which is available in prescription and non-prescription form, prevents fats from being broken down and turned into cholesterol. As a result, niacin decreases LDL and triglyceride levels and raises HDL levels. Side effects include flushing, vomiting and nausea, elevated blood sugar, gout and peptic ulcers.
