Cholesterol is a naturally occurring fatty substance located in the cells of your body. It is carried through your blood by transporters called lipoproteins. Low-density lipoproteins and high-density lipoproteins travel through your arteries and perform specific functions for maintaining blood and heart health. However, high levels of LDL, also referred to as bad cholesterol increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. During initial diagnosis of high cholesterol the first line of treatment is dietary and lifestyle habit changes. In the event that these changes do not work or lower cholesterol, medication intervention is recommended.
Omega-3 Prescription Supplement
Omega-3-acid ethyl ester capsules are the only FDA approved prescription strength fish oil supplement used for treating cholesterol and decreasing triglycerides. This medication is considered a lipid regulator, made of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential substances for the diet that are not naturally made by your body. Common side effects include belching, unusual or fishy taste in the mouth and mild stomach upset. If you are allergic to fish, this medication is not suggested. The starting dosage for this type of medication is 4 g a day, taken as capsules.
Lovastatin, Atorvastatin and Simvastatin
The statin group of medications is the most commonly prescribed cholesterol lowering drug. Statins inhibit, or slow down the production of cholesterol in your body and also remove excess cholesterol buildup from your arteries. According to the American Heart Association, statins are low in drug-drug interactions and most patients taking this medication report minimal adverse effects. Possible side effects include short-term constipation, abdominal pain and cramping. Do not eat grapefruit products when taking this medication because this fruit decreases the healthy effects of the drug.
Colestipol, Cholestyramine and Colesevelam
Bile acid binding resins are medications that work with the bile acids in your body to rid excess cholesterol while also making more bile acid. These medications are more commonly prescribed in addition to using statins, because they only lower your total LDL cholesterol levels, and do not increase your HDL. Common side effects include gas and bloating, nausea and constipation. The most problematic side effect of resins is the potential for raising triglyceride levels, which negatively impacts arterial health.
Fenofibrate, Gemfibrozil and Fenofibrate
Fibrate medications reduce the amount of triglycerides in your blood and also increase HDL levels. Fibrates are commonly prescribed as an adjunct to statins. Side effects from using fibrates include gallstone formation, abdominal pain and nausea. Fibrates paired with statins have a rare side effect of muscle pain. Physician monitoring is also necessary when taking combination cholesterol drugs to prevent liver problems.
