Millions of Americans suffer from high cholesterol and elevated lipid levels. Triglycerides are a specific type of cholesterol that when found in excessively high levels can increase the risk of developing heart disease and other metabolic disorders such as diabetes. Atorvastatin and simvastatin are two of the most commonly prescribed medications for treating high cholesterol. In addition to lowering low-density lipoproteins (LDL cholesterol), these drugs have also been shown to lower triglycerides.
High Triglycerides
Chronic exposure to elevated triglyceride levels can place patients at increased risk for heart disease and metabolic disorders. The National Institutes of Health Adult Treatment Panel 3 lipid guidelines reports that the risk of developing these conditions increases as triglyceride levels exceed 150mg/dL. Although lifestyle modifications can lower triglyceride levels, prescription medications may need to be included as part of the treatment regimen.
Atorvastatin and Triglycerides
Marketed under the brand name Lipitor by Pfizer, atorvastatin is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor that blocks a crucial enzyme in the synthesis of cholesterol. According to the manufacturer's product package insert for Lipitor, the drug also showed a reduction in triglycerides when compared to a placebo. Clinical trials used to gain approval for the drug showed that use of atorvastatin resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in triglyceride levels of between 19 percent and 37 percent.
Simvastatin and Triglycerides
Marketed under the brand name Zocor by Merck, simvastatin is also an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor. In addition to lowering LDL cholesterol, simvastatin can reduce triglyceride levels. According to Zocor's product package insert, patients using Zocor 40 mg and 80 mg a day experienced a mean triglyceride reduction of 29 percent and 34 percent from baseline, respectively.
Significance
Although lifestyle modifications are an important part of treating high triglyceride levels, some patients require the use of prescription medications. Atorvastatin and simvastatin are two medications that have been shown to lower triglyceride levels. In addition to statins, other drug classes such as fibrates can also help to reduce triglyceride levels. Patients should speak to a physician with concerns regarding high triglycerides and appropriate treatment options.
