1. Examine the Potential of Statins
If natural methods fail or if your LDL levels are so high that you are at risk of a heart attack or other serious complications, talk to your doctor about statins, a type of drug that significantly reduces the risk of complications. Statins must be taken on a daily basis to control the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver. Statins, however, carry serious side effects, from mental confusion to kidney failure, so they should only be considered if natural remedies don't work. People in the high-risk category (130 mg/dL or higher LDL) should begin taking medication as soon as the problem is diagnosed, but others can try diet and exercise first.
2. Combine Medications
Statins might be combined with other drugs for quicker results or used in cases where Statins alone are not affecting cholesterol levels adequately. Drugs such as colestipol or cholestyramine make it easier for your body to get rid of excess cholesterol, while ezetimibe inhibits cholesterol absorption. The third group of drugs, fenofibrates, are used to increase HDL cholesterol. Many doctors also prescribe high levels of niacin to lower triglycerides. The higher the number of drugs combined, the more chances for secondary effects and complications, so most doctors won't prescribe them unless absolutely necessary.
3. Don't Forget Diet and Exercise
Most patients under 35 or in good overall health are not prescribed drugs unless it has been proven that a low-fat diet and regular physical activity have no effect on their cholesterol levels. Simply reducing the amount of saturated fat in the diet and increasing natural foods rich in fiber may be enough for some people to show a significant improvement. Exercise is also extremely effective for treating high cholesterol, since it helps patients lose weight and reduce their overall fat percentage, including the amount of fat in the bloodstream.
