Did your last medical report say that your cholesterol level is a little high? Or has your mother, father, or a close friend had to take medication for cholesterol? In fact, this is a very common health problem for many people in our country. So today, let's talk like a close friend, about the medications that doctors give us to control this blood fat, or cholesterol. In medical terms, we call these 'antihyperlipidemic' drugs.
Why does cholesterol increase in our body?
Simply put, cholesterol is a type of fat that our bodies need in certain amounts. Our liver produces the amount we need. However, we can exceed this amount due to the foods we eat and our lifestyle.
There are several main reasons:
- Our diet: Eating foods high in saturated fat, especially animal products (meat, dairy products), fried foods, and palm oil.
- Lack of exercise: When we don't keep our body active, the extra energy we consume gets stored as fat.
- Genetic causes: Some people have a genetic predisposition to high cholesterol levels.
The biggest problem that arises when cholesterol levels in the body increase is a condition called atherosclerosis . This means that fat deposits on the inner walls of our blood vessels, gradually blocking the path through which blood flows. This greatly increases the risk of developing serious diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.
Your doctor will look at your cholesterol level, your age, and other health conditions, and if it can't be controlled with diet and exercise alone, he or she may prescribe medication.
What are the main types of cholesterol-lowering medications?
There are several types of medications that can be used to lower cholesterol. Not everyone is given the same medication. Your doctor will choose the medication that best suits your condition. Let's look at the main types of medications.
| Drug Class | How it works simply |
|---|---|
| Statins | It controls the production of cholesterol by the liver. This is the most commonly used type. |
| Fibrates | It especially reduces a type of fat called triglycerides. |
| PCSK9 inhibitors | A special medicine given as an injection to those at high risk of heart disease. |
| Bile acid sequestrants | It works in the intestines, binding to bile, which helps digest fat, and reducing cholesterol absorption. |
| Selective cholesterol absorption inhibitors | It directly prevents the body from absorbing cholesterol from the intestines. |
| Omega-3 fatty acids | Also called "fish oil." Helps lower triglyceride levels. |
Statins - Why are they so important?
Most often, a doctor will first choose a statin drug because they are very effective. In addition to lowering cholesterol, they do several other important things.
- Improves the functioning of blood vessels.
- Reduces swelling and damage to blood vessels.
- Reduces the risk of blood clots.
- It reduces the risk of plaques (fatty deposits) in the arteries breaking down and causing damage.
Because of these additional benefits, statin medications are very important for those who have experienced conditions such as heart disease, or for those who are at risk for it.
What are the possible side effects of this medication?
As with any medication, some people may experience minor side effects. Most of the time, these are not serious, and not everyone will experience them. But it's important to be aware of them. If any side effects bother you, be sure to talk to your doctor before stopping the medication.
| Type of medicine | Possible common side effects |
|---|---|
| Statins | Constipation, nausea, headache, muscle aches, flu-like symptoms, and mildly elevated blood sugar levels. (Grapefruit should be avoided when taking some statins.) |
| Fibrates | Constipation or diarrhea, bloating, stomach ache, headache. |
| Bile acid sequestrants | Constipation, bloating, stomach pain. (If this medicine is a powder, never swallow it dry. Dissolve it well in a glass of water or drink.) |
| Niacin | Flushing of the face and body, itchy skin, stomach upset, headache. |
| Omega-3 | Nausea, fishy taste, itchy skin. |
How should I behave while taking medication?
To get the maximum results from medication, there are a few things we need to pay attention to.
- Take your medicine exactly as your doctor tells you: take it at the right time, in the right dose. Don't be afraid to ask if there's anything you don't understand.
- Do not reduce the dose as you feel like it: Do not reduce the dose to save money or for any other reason. The full dose is needed to get the full effect.
- Renew your medication before it runs out: Don't wait until your medication runs out, get it from the pharmacy in advance.
- Make taking your medication part of your daily routine: Get in the habit of taking it at the same time every day. Use a pillbox, calendar, or phone app to remind you.
- If you miss a dose...: Take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose as usual. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
- Tell your doctor about other medications: Tell your doctor about all other medications you take (including vitamins and herbal remedies). Even if you are going to see a dentist or have surgery, tell them about the medications you are taking.
One thing to remember: To get the most out of your cholesterol medication, it's also important to stick to a heart-healthy diet and exercise routine. Medication is only part of the journey.
Take-Home Message
- High blood cholesterol levels are a common condition that can lead to serious illnesses and often require medication.
- There are many types of cholesterol-lowering medications. Your doctor will choose the one that is best for you.
- Maintaining a healthy diet and exercising while taking medication can increase the effectiveness of the medication.
- You should never stop taking medication or change the dosage without medical advice.
- If you experience any side effects, talk to your doctor before stopping the medication. You may be able to switch to a different medication.
- Avoid taking so-called "natural" supplements without medical advice. They can cause problems with other medications you are taking.
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