Cholesterol is a wax-like substance that is in the lipids in the bloodstream. Although the word cholesterol often carries negative implications, cholesterol is an important part of proper body function. Cholesterol can be divided into two categories that are often referred to as "good" cholesterol and "bad" cholesterol. Good cholesterol is also called high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, cholesterol, while the bad cholesterol is called low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, cholesterol. When a person refers to fighting cholesterol, it implies lowering the amount of LDL cholesterol in the blood. While statins are one type of cholesterol-lowering drug, doctors have other options available.
Bile-Acid Sequestrants
The liver uses available cholesterol to make bile acids, which are necessary to proper digestion of fats. Bile-acid sequestrants help fight cholesterol by binding to bile acids, which triggers the liver to use more cholesterol to produce bile acids. When cholesterol is transformed to bile acids, blood concentrations of LDL cholesterol decrease. According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, bile-acid sequestrants are usually prescribed in conjunction with other cholesterol-lowering medications.
Some possible side effects of bile-acid sequestrants include heartburn, constipation, gas, indigestion and nausea. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration notes that those with liver or gallbladder diseases should not use this medication.
Cholesterol Absorption Inhibitors
The small intestine absorbs dietary cholesterol and releases it into the bloodstream. Cholesterol absorption inhibitors work by binding to cholesterol-binding sites in the body and preventing cholesterol absorption.
Common side effects of cholesterol absorption inhibitors are fatigue and weakness. Use caution when taking this medication in conjunction with blood thinners.
Nicotinic Acid
Nicotinic acid works by decreasing the liver's ability to produce LDL and very-low-density lipoprotein, or VLDL, cholesterol. MayoClinic.com notes that over-the-counter supplements that contain nicotinic acid are available, but are not effective for fighting cholesterol. Prescription-strength medication is necessary.
Nicotinic acid may cause headache, heartburn, nausea, diarrhea and flushing of the face and neck. Those with liver disease or women who are breastfeeding should not take nicotinic acid.
Fibrates
Like nicotinic acid, fibrates work by lowering the liver's production of LDL and VLDL cholesterol, but fibrates also increase the removal of triglycerides from the blood. In addition to lowering LDL and VLDL cholesterol, fibrates may also raise HDL cholesterol.
Common side effects of fibrates include headache, dizziness stomach pain, constipation and diarrhea. Those with kidney disease, liver disease or gallbladder disease should not take fibrates. Individuals on blood thinners and diabetics should also use care when taking this medication.
