Metabolic syndrome is a collection of abnormalities that increase the risk of heart disease. The combination of disorders, each of which increases the likelihood of coronary artery disease, is particularly dangerous. Metabolic syndrome can be diagnosed in individuals who have a combination of central obesity, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels and abnormal blood sugar levels. No single medicine can treat this syndrome: each factor must be addressed separately.
Weight Loss Medications
In addition to obesity, excess abdominal girth significantly increases the incidence of heart disease, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. While proper diet and exercise are the most often recommended treatments, weight loss medications may be indicated in some instances. Phentermine, phendimetrazine and methamphetamine stimulate the central nervous system and decrease appetite. Diethylpropion and sibutramine are non-stimulant drugs that affect brain chemicals to suppress the appetite. Orlistat is available by prescription or over-the-counter. It works by blocking fat absorption in the intestine.
Hypertension Medications
Numerous medicines are available for the treatment of high blood pressure associated with metabolic syndrome. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors such as lisinopril or benazepril, angiotensin receptor blockers like losartan or valsartan, beta-blockers like metoprolol or propranolol, calcium channel blockers such as diltiazem or amlodipine, and diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide, to name a few. There is no single recommended agent, and the drug or drugs chosen should be dictated by the particular set of medical problems being treated.
Cholesterol Medications
Two abnormalities predominate in those suffering from metabolic syndrome: diminished high density lipoprotein or HDL, and elevated low density lipoprotein or LDL. The American Heart Association discusses a strategy of lowering the LDL first, then addressing the HDL as necessary. Simvastatin, rosuvastatin, lovastatin and pravastatin are examples of statin drugs that can help control abnormally high LDL cholesterol levels. Adding a fibrate, such as gemfibrozil, fenofibric acid or clofibrate, may be indicated to further improve cholesterol levels. These medicines tend to lower LDL and raise HDL. Niacin is a B vitamin that has beneficial effects on both types of cholesterol.
Diabetes Medications
Impaired fasting glucose or type 2 diabetes may be seen in the metabolic syndrome. Metformin is mentioned as an oral treatment option by the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Other medicines available include sulfonylureas such as glipizide or glyburide, thiazolidinediones like rosiglitazone or pioglitazone, and insulin. Specific treatment must be discussed with a qualified health care professional.
Aspirin
Aspirin, taken on a daily basis, may lower the risk of heart attack or stroke in susceptible individuals, notes MayoClinic.com. All those suffering from metabolic syndrome should consider a low dose of aspirin each day.
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