Cholesterol is a fatty substance in the blood. Cholesterol known as high-density lipoprotein (HDL) is also called "good cholesterol." HDL helps to keep arteries from becoming clogged and protects against heart disease. Cholesterol known as low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is also called "bad cholesterol." LDL can build up on artery walls, blocking the arteries. If levels of LDL are high, there is an increased risk of developing heart disease. Although LDL levels can be lowered with exercise and proper diet, there are also medications to help lower LDL cholesterol levels.
Fibrates
Certain medications, known as fibric acid derivatives, work to lower LDL cholesterol levels by decreasing the amount of triglycerides, which are a type of fat in the blood, while increasing the amount of HDL cholesterol. Examples of fibrates include gemfibrozil and fenofibrate.
Statins
Statins are also known as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors. They help to lower cholesterol levels by decreasing the amount of cholesterol produced by the body. They also reduce cholesterol buildup from the walls of blood vessels. Examples of statins include pravastatin, atorvastatin, lovastatin, simvastatin, fluvastatin and rosuvastatin.
Niacin
Niacin is also known as nicotinic acid, and it is one of the B vitamins. It works to lower levels of triglycerides. It also increases the levels of HDL cholesterol and lowers the levels of LDL cholesterol. Niacin should not be taken to lower cholesterol unless prescribed by a physician.
Cholesterol Absorption Inhibitors
These inhibitors help to lower cholesterol levels by decreasing the amount of cholesterol that is absorbed by the intestines. This type of medication is also used in conjunction with a statin medication. An example of a cholesterol absorption inhibitor is ezetimibe.
Resins
Resins are also called bile acid sequestrants. They work to lower LDL cholesterol levels by binding to bile, making it unusable by the body. The liver then increases the production of bile, and in doing so uses more cholesterol, thereby decreasing the levels of cholesterol in the blood.
