According to the American Heart Association, an estimated 98.6 million Americans have been diagnosed with high cholesterol. Cholesterol is considered high when it reaches 200 mg/dl or higher and is a major risk factor for heart disease. The first step in treating high cholesterol is through changes in diet and exercise. If those fail to bring your cholesterol down, your doctor may prescribe one of five different types of cholesterol-lowering drugs, depending on the your specific condition. The most popular cholesterol-lowering drugs include statins (also known as HMG CoA reductase inhibitors), selective cholesterol absorption inhibitors, resins (also known as bile acid sequestrant or bile acid-binding drugs), fibrates or niacin (nicotinic acid).
Statins
Statins (also known as HMG CoA reductase inhibitors) are one of the most commonly prescribed cholesterol-lowering drugs because they work on the liver to prevent it from producing cholesterol. Statins are particularly effective in reducing low-density lipoproteins (LDL), or the bad type of cholesterol, while only modestly reducing triglycerides and raising high-density lipoproteins (HDL). The most commonly reported side effect of statins is muscle pain that subsides with time.
Selective Cholesterol Absorption Inhibitors
Selective cholesterol absorption inhibitors work by preventing the intestine from absorbing cholesterol before it can enter the bloodstream. They are the most effective drug for lowering LDL and triglycerides and raising HDL cholesterol. Gastrointestinal discomfort is the most commonly reported side effect.
Resins
Resins, which are also known as bile acid sequestrant or bile acid-binding drugs, are prescribed to specifically lower and dispose of LDL cholesterol. The body uses cholesterol to make bile, a substance used in the digestive process. Resins bind to bile preventing them from being used in the digestive process. The liver responds by making more bile, which in turn, is taken up by cholesterol and excreted from the body. The most common side effect of resins includes bloating and constipation.
Fibrates
Fibrates (also called fibric acid derivatives) are generally prescribed for increasing HDL cholesterol and lowering triglycerides. Because they're not particularly effective at lowering LDL cholesterol, they're usually prescribed with statins or one of the other LDL-lowering drugs. Common complaints with taking fibrates include bloating, skin rashes and sensitivity to sunlight.
Niacin
Niacin (also called nicotinic acid) works by reducing the liver's ability to produce blood fats. It is typically prescribed to lower triglycerides and LDL cholesterol, while raising HDL cholesterol. The most common side effects include tingling skin and flushing of the the face and lower jaw.
