High cholesterol and elevated triglycerides are a growing problem in American society. Elevated triglycerides are a major risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders. A number of prescription drugs are available to help lower triglyceride levels.
High Triglycerides
Triglycerides are lipid molecules composed of chains of fatty acids. Although lipids are an important component of cell membranes and energy metabolism, excessive amounts can cause cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders. According to the National Institutes of Health Adult Treatment Panel 3 Lipid Guidelines, the optimal triglyceride level is below 150mg/dL.
Gemfibrozil and Fenofibrate
Perhaps the most effective pharmaceutical treatment for elevated triglycerides are gemfibrozil and other medications belonging to the drug class known as fibrates. According to the Helsinki Heart Study, researchers found that patients who were the most compliant with gemfibrozil therapy experienced a mean reduction in triglycerides of 45 percent. Similarly, trials used for the approval of fenofibrate found a mean reduction in triglycerides of 28.9 percent.
Statins
The most popular cholesterol medications on the market belong to a class of drugs known as statins. Although statins are primarily effective at lowering low-density lipoproteins, or LDL cholesterol, they may also reduce triglycerides. Many statins are available on the market and the reduction in triglycerides ranges between 22 to 45 percent across all statins as reported by EA Stein and colleagues in a 1998 article published in the "American Journal of Cardiology."
Other Triglyceride Lowering Drugs
Although less commonly prescribed, drugs that bind dietary cholesterol such as cholestyramine can also reduce triglyceride levels. Over-the-counter and prescription niacin may also provide benefits in lowering triglycerides and increasing high-density lipoproteins, commonly referred to as "good" cholesterol. If you have concerns regarding elevated triglycerides and the appropriate choices for treatment, you should speak with your physician.
References
- "European Heart Journal"; Lipoproteins and Coronary Heart Disease in the Helsinki Heart Study; M. Manttari, et al.; 1990
- National Institutes of Health: ATP III Lipid Guidelines
- Abbott Laboratories: Tricor Product Package Insert
- "American Journal of Cardiology"; Comparison of Statins in Hypertriglyceridemia; EA Stein, et al.; February 1998
