Triglyceride refers to a type of lipid (fat) found floating in the blood. According to the Mayo Clinic, triglycerides are typically stored in fat cells (adipose) and released when energy is needed. A normal triglyceride level in the blood is less than 150 milligrams per deciliter. A high triglyceride level is between 200 to 499 milligrams per deciliter. High triglyceride sufferers are prone to developing heart attacks and strokes. Fortunately, medications can lower triglycerides.
Niacin
Niacin is actually vitamin B, Drugs.com says. It works to reduce the triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood. Sometimes, it can be used to treat atherosclerosis, a condition in which fatty plaque accumulates in the blood vessels.
Niacin's common side effects include dizziness, chills, sweating, muscle pain, leg cramps and dry skin. Niacin also causes diarrhea, gas, nausea, belching, trouble sleeping and warmth or tingling underneath the skin. Tell a physician when niacin's common effects do not disappear within one week.
Niacin's serious effects include fainting, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, swelling, yellowing of the skin or eyes and muscle pain, weakness or tenderness. Sometimes, niacin can also lead to a pounding, fast or irregular heartbeat. Inform a physician right away when niacin causes these side effects.
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking niacin as the combination can increase the risk for liver damage, says Drugs.com. Also, drinking hot beverages with niacin can promote a flushing effect of the skin (redness and warmth).
Niacin is an extended-release capsule or tablet that should be taken exactly as instructed.
Simvastatin
Simvastatin belongs to a class of drugs called statins, which work to lower the cholesterol and triglycerides in the body. Specifically, simvastatin reduces the production of cholesterol.
According to the National Institutes of Health, simvastatin's common side effect includes constipation. This effect should not last for more than seven days. Simvastatin's serious side effects include muscle pain or tenderness, a fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes, trouble swallowing or breathing, fatigue and upper right stomach pain. Simvastatin's other serious side effects include hoarseness, swelling of the feet, legs, ankles or face and abnormal bleeding or bruising. Call a physician immediately when simvastatin causes these effects.
Simvastatin is a tablet taken one to three times a day.
Fenofibrate
Fenofibrate also reduces blood triglyceride and cholesterol levels. According to Drugs.com, fenofibrate's common side effects include indigestion, joint pain, bloating, gas (flatulence) and a rash. Inform a doctor when fenofibrate's side effects remain for more than seven to 10 days.
Fenofibrate's more serious effects include severe stomach pain, weakness, fever, vomiting and nausea. Call a physician immediately when fenofibrate causes these effects.
Fenofibrate is a tablet taken daily or as prescribed.
