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Manage Cholesterol with Effective Lipid-Lowering Therapies
High cholesterol is a serious problem that affects many people, leading to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke and other health problems. Fortunately, there are 5 effective lipid-lowering therapies that can be used to help manage cholesterol and enhance overall health.
1. Statins
Statins are one of the most commonly prescribed medications for lowering cholesterol and reducing the risk of heart disease. They work by blocking the production of cholesterol in the liver, reducing the amount of this fatty substance in the bloodstream. Statin medications include Lipitor, Crestor, and Zocor.
2. Cholesterol Absorption Inhibitors
Cholesterol absorption inhibitors are drugs that can reduce cholesterol levels by blocking the absorption of cholesterol from the intestine. These drugs include stanol esters (such as Benecol,Take Control) and ezetimibe (such as Zetia).
3. Bile Acid-Binding Resins
Bile acid-binding resins are drugs that can help reduce cholesterol levels by binding to bile acids in the intestine, making them unavailable for the body to absorb. These drugs include cholestyramine (such as Questran and Prevalite) and colestipol (such as Colestid).
4. Nicotinic Acid Derivatives
Nicotinic acid derivatives can help reduce cholesterol levels by reducing the production of LDL cholesterol and increasing levels of HDL cholesterol. These drugs include niacin (such as Niaspan and Niacor).
5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats found in fish and some plant sources. They can help reduce cholesterol levels by increasing levels of HDL cholesterol and reducing levels of triglycerides. Sources of omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardines, anchovies, walnuts, flaxseed, and canola oil.
If you have been diagnosed with high cholesterol, it is important to talk to your doctor about these effective lipid-lowering therapies. With the help of medications and dietary changes, you can reduce your risk of heart disease and improve your overall health.
