Cholesterol medicationsA doctor will usually prescribe cholesterol medications when cholesterol levels remain high despite changes to diet and lifestyle.
Cholesterol absorption inhibitors (Ezetimibe) Ezetimibe (brand name is Ezetrol) is called a cholesterol absorption inhibitor. As you can probably imagine, it works by reducing the absorption of cholesterol from the intestine. It is often used as a combination therapy with a statin, for people with cholesterol levels that are not controlled by taking a statin alone. Bile acid sequestrants (Cholestyramine and colestipol) Cholestryamine (Questran Lite) and colestipol (Colestid granules) are common bile acid sequestrants or resins. These particular cholesterol medications work by binding to bile acids in the intestines, which inhibits the reabsorption of bile and increase the amount that travels out of the body through the faeces. Since cholesterol is used to make bile, the demand for cholesterol increases and thus blood cholesterol levels decrease. Fibrates (Gemfibrozil and fenofibrate) Gemfibrozil (e.g. Ausgem, Lopid) and fenofibrate (e.g. Lipidil) are common fibrates. Fibrates are mainly used to help reduce triglycerides, as they work by increasing the amount of triglycerides that are removed from the blood. They are also known to increase levels of HDL (good) cholesterol. Nicotinic acid Nicotinic acid, also known as niacin, is also a water soluble vitamin (vitamin B3). It is believed to block the breakdown of VLDL (the precursor to LDL) in fatty tissues, which results in less fatty acids in the blood and a reduction in the release of VLDL and cholesterol by the liver. Niacin is sometimes prescribed for people who have a low HDL (good) cholesterol level, as it is known to increase HDL levels. For more information about specific cholesterol drugs, here are some great resources:
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