Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood and fat cells in the body. Too much triglycerides can contribute to the hardening and narrowing of blood vessels, which puts you at risk for heart attack and stroke. Statins, also called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, are a class of drugs used to lower high cholesterol. Statins are also used to lower high triglycerides, according to MayoClinic.com.
Statins and Triglycerides
Normal triglyceride levels are less than 150 mg/dL. Patients with triglyceride levels higher than 150 mg/dL may be prescribed statins. Statins help the body reabsorb cholesterol and triglycerides that have built up in your artery walls, which prevents further blockage that can lead to heart attack and stroke. Commonly used statins include atorvastatin, lovastatin, simvastatin, rosuvastatin and pravastatin.
Statins Administration
Statins are usually taken once a day in the evening with your evening meal because most cholesterol is synthesized at night. Statins should be taken at the same time every day. If you have a history of liver, kidney , diabetes or thyroid disorder, you should inform the doctor. Avoid drinking alcohol because it can raise triglyceride levels and increase your risk of liver damage. You should also avoid taking statins together with grapefruit juice. Statins interact with grapefruit juice and lead to dangerous effects.
Other Ways to Lower Triglycerides
Lifestyle changes are essential in lowering high triglycerides and reducing your risk of heart disease. Lifestyle changes that may help you lower high triglycerides include eating a low-fat and low-cholesterol diet, eating a low-calorie diet, increasing intake of healthy fats such as omega-3 fatty acids, exercising 30 minutes a day, managing stress, avoiding refined foods, and quitting smoking, according to MayoClinic.com.
Side Effects of Statins
Common side effects of statins include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, muscle pain and joint pain. Adverse effects include liver damage and muscle problems. Use of statins can cause an increase in liver enzymes. Patients taking statins require regular blood tests and liver function tests to monitor the liver. Symptoms of liver damage include itching, dark urine, upper right abdominal pain, and yellowing of the skin and eyes. Statins can cause muscle cells to break down and release myoglobin, a protein that can damage the kidneys. Patients with persistent muscle pains should consult the doctor.
