Cholesterol-lowering medications are helpful for the scores of Americans whose diets don't improve with healthy dieting and regular exercise. Lipitor, Zocor, and Crestor are the most popular brands prescribed by doctors for reducing cholesterol levels. While these medicines are effective, it is also important to continue making healthy lifestyle choices. Most high levels of cholesterol that do not respond to lifestyle changes can be attributed to genetic causes. When taking a medicine for cholesterol, it is important to always follow doctors' dosage instructions and to notify them of any changes that are observed in overall health. There are many side effects that are possible when taking these types of medications, such as liver damage. Multiple blood test will likely be required when taking the drug in order to monitor liver enzyme levels. Read on to learn more about medications for high cholesterol.
Unfortunately, high cholesterol that is not caused by eating habits or a lack of exercise are typically genetic and will not go away. Cholesterol lowering medicines will need to be taken for the remainder of one's life and the cholesterol levels will increase after not taking the drug for a period of two months.
There are multiple generic options on the market for statins (the most common type of medicine for the treatment of high cholesterol). Look for drugs named simvastatin, pravastatin, and lovastatin. Most doctors will offer their patients any generic options that are available at the time of writing the prescription.
Cholesterol levels are monitored through regular blood tests that doctors order at annual visits and other check-ups. These tests show the amount of cholesterol in the blood and when elevated, the physcian will work with the patient to achieve a safe level.
Cholesterol baselines differ between different people which is why it is important to have it monitored on a regular basis. Typically speaking, a cholesterol level below or near 200 is considered normal and will not require treatment.
Cholesterol lowering medications can cause headaches, nausea, and vomiting, especially in the first few weeks as the body's system adjusts to the drug. If the symptoms persist after a reasonable amount of time, it is best to discuss switching to a different medication with the doctor.
While there are no foods that will cause a negative reaction due to consumption, it is a good idea to eat in a manner that is heart healthy. Avoid high-fat foods that have little nutritional value as they can increase the levels of bad cholesterol.
As statins, the active ingredient in most cholesterol medications, are already tough on the liver it is always best to avoid any consumption of alcohol when taking these medicines. Every doctor should know of any personal habits that may effect their treatment of highcholesterol.
If a patient cannot afford their cholesterol medicine their doctor can help them find lower cost options or to prescribe those medicines best covered by their insurance. Additionally, many drug companies offer financial help to some patients that cannot afford their drugs.