Cholesterol Lowering MedicationIf you are suffering from high cholesterol, your doctor may recommend some lifestyle changes and medication to lower it. There are many options to reduce your cholesterol, however the most rapid way is with conventional cholesterol reducing medication. In general, most can make dietary changes to reduce their cholesterol. Exercise is also another option. But for some, these small changes do not make a significant enough difference. When diet and exercise prove ineffective, cholesterol reducing medication is the best option. Different types of medication are available, and are broken down into two categories. - The first type will reduce the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver - The second type will lower the amount of dietary cholesterol that is taken in from food Here are a list of some typical cholesterol medications: NIACIN - a vitamin B based drug that is commonly found in many multi-vitamins. Concentrated doses that are found in prescription medication can reduce the bad cholesterol and increase the good cholesterol. Tingling, reddening of the skin, headaches, and itchiness are common side effects to this drug. STATINS - are one of the newer medications, and are very effective at interrupting the biochemical pathway right when cholesterol is being formed in the liver. SEQUESTRANTS OF BILE ACID - will help reduce the production of cholesterol by the liver. Common side effects include irritation in the stomach, digestive distruptions, upset stomach, gas and mild constipation. ZETIA - is designed to decrease the amount of cholesterol that is taken in by the intestines from food. Regular blood tests are highly recommended when using cholesterol medication. It is important to ensure that the medication is working in your body, and not just causing harmful side effects. Diet and exercise are also beneficial to a cholesterol reducing program. Consulting your physician is necessary when managing high cholesterol. If diet and exercise are not enough, then seek a prescription medication from your doctor. Every person is different, so what is good for you, may not be good for another. |