Lovastatin, brand name Mevacor, is a drug used to lower high cholesterol and other fatty substances in the blood. You have probably heard this type of medication referred to as a "statin". Do not confuse triglycerides with cholesterol; triglycerides are the "other fatty substances" in the blood. According to the American Heart Association, triglycerides together with cholesterol form the plasma lipids in your blood. They are similar, however different, substances.
Triglycerides
These fatty lipids come from diet and your body produces the rest. In fact, most of the fat in your body exists in the form of triglycerides. The extra calories you take in are stored as fat' it is stored as triglycerides in fat tissues. The American Heart Association gauges tryglyceride levels -- following overnight fasting: Normal is considered less than 150 mg/dL, borderline-high is 150 to 199 mg/dL, high is 200 to 499 mg/dL and very high is 500 mg/dL or higher. Higher than normal levels of triglycerides is called hypertriglyceridemia.
Lovastatin
When you have a buildup of triglycerides, it collects along the walls of blood vessels, causing a decrease in blood flow and therefore oxygen to the brain, heart and other body systems. Lovastatin works to lower triglycerides by slowing the production of fatty lipids. Depending on your tryglyceride level, your physician will prescribe the optimum dosage. Inform your doctor of any other medications you take, if you have liver disease or if you are allergic to lovastatin. It is very important to discuss your consumption, if any, of alcohol.
Other Factors
Since triglycerides accumulate in your blood from the food you eat, your diet is extremely important. It should be low in saturated and trans fats. You should include large amount of fruits and vegetables along with low- or no-fat dairy products. Eat unrefined whole-grain food with fiber to help you feel full. If you are overweight, calculate how many calories you need per day and work to stay within that range. Exercising 30 minutes per day at least five days a week will go far toward lowering weight and triglycerides. Do not consume more than a quart of grapefruit juice a day. Importantly, reduce or stop drinking alcohol. Even in small amounts, alcohol can raise levels.
Does It Work?
Research -- for example, a study published in "Atherosclerosus" -- shows that lovastatin does work to lower triglycerides. However, studies also show that it is essential to make lifestyle changes that include weight loss, exercise and a healthy, low-fat diet among other suggested modifications. Each case is individual; your physician will take into consideration your complete health assessment when ordering medication and other changes for your condition.
