High Cholesterol Management
Patient Education on High Cholesterol
What are the common lipid lowering medicines?
Statins
Fibrates
Purpose of Medication
The medicines lower your blood cholesterol levels by reducing the amount of bad cholesterol (low density lipoprotein or LDL-cholesterol) and fat (triglyceride or TG) and also raise the amount of good cholesterol (high density lipoprotein or HDL-cholesterol). High cholesterol levels can slowly lead to coronary/ischemic heart disease by gradually clogging up the blood vessels that supply the heart muscle. This process, called atherosclerosis, can eventually lead to chest pain (angina), heart attack or stroke.
*To make sure this is the right medication for your condition, you will have to consult our Doctors first.
Side effects
While statins are generally well-tolerated by most individuals, like any medication, it may cause side effects in some people. Including:
Muscle Pain or Weakness: Some individuals may experience muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness while taking statins. In rare cases, this could indicate a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis, which requires immediate medical attention.
Headache: Headaches are a common side effect of statins and usually resolve on their own as your body adjusts to the medication.
Nausea or Stomach Pain: Some people may experience digestive issues such as nausea, stomach pain, or constipation when starting statins.
Dizziness: Statins may cause dizziness or lightheadedness in some individuals, particularly when standing up quickly.
Liver Problems: In rare cases, statins may cause liver problems, which can manifest as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or persistent nausea.
Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to statins, which can include rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, or difficulty breathing.
Memory Loss or Confusion: There have been reports of memory loss or confusion in some individuals taking statin medications. However, the link between statins and cognitive issues is still being studied.
Diabetes Risk: Some studies have suggested that statins may slightly increase the risk of developing diabetes, particularly in individuals who already have risk factors for the disease.
*It's essential to report any unusual or persistent side effects to our Doctors promptly. They can help determine whether statins is the right medication for you or if adjustments need to be made to your treatment plan.
What precautions should you take?
If you are on statins and fibrates, do not forget to mention this as medical history to every doctor that you see.
If you are allergic, have active liver disease, pregnant or breastfeeding, or diagnosed to have bile duct disease, please inform your doctor if he/she intends to prescribe you these medications.
If you are taking other medications such as warfarin, please inform your doctor as well so that potential drug-drug interactions can be identified and avoided where possible.
How should you take these
medications?
The medications in this group are primarily available as tablets or capsules and should be taken orally with water. Be sure to follow the instructions on the prescription label.
Statins are typically best taken after evening meals.
Other medications should be taken at least one hour before or four hours after this medicine to minimize potential absorption interference. Continue taking your medicine unless advised otherwise by your doctor. Discontinuing your medication may cause your cholesterol levels to rise again. Inform your doctor if you intend to stop taking this medicine permanently.
What to do if you have a
missed dose?
If you happen to miss your usual dose, do not take an extra dose. Instead, continue taking your next usual prescribed dose.
Discard all medication that is outdated or no longer required.
Statins are generally best taken after evening meals.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page about high cholesterol is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
The content on this page is intended to provide general information and should not be relied upon as specific medical advice tailored to your individual circumstances. We do not endorse any specific medication, treatment, or product mentioned on this page. Reliance on any information provided here is solely at your own risk.
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