Cholesterol medicine. Overview of cholesterol-lowering drugs: statins and other drugs

Update: November 2018

After a blood test for cholesterol, the doctor prescribes to the patient expensive cholesterol pills that prevent diseases of the cardiovascular system - statins.

At the same time, the doctor must also explain to the patient that now he must take these medicines constantly. Any pills - for lowering cholesterol or for other diseases - all without exception have their own set of side effects.

And the doctor should warn his patient about all the possible side effects of statins. How can you lower cholesterol with pills and should you do it? Of course, every person who has high cholesterol in the blood thinks - do I need to take medicines?

From cholesterol there are 2 main groups pharmacological preparations- statins and fibrates, it is also recommended to use Omega 3 and lipoic acid. In this article, we will take a closer look at what cholesterol pills exist, their harm and benefit.

The information provided in this article does not advocate self-prescribing drugs or stopping statins prescribed by a doctor. If you have any doubts about the advisability of taking them, you should contact several specialists and go through comprehensive examination. The risk and benefit of drugs should only be assessed by a doctor in each specific clinical case, taking into account the presence of the patient's chronic diseases and the state of the cardiovascular system.

Statins are cholesterol-lowering drugs.

Statins - chemical substances that reduce the production of enzymes in the body that are necessary for the synthesis of cholesterol in the body. The instructions for these drugs, cholesterol-lowering pills, indicate the following:

Statins reduce the concentration of cholesterol in plasma due to the inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase, reducing the synthesis of cholesterol in the liver.
Reduce the concentration of cholesterol in individuals with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, not amenable to treatment with lipid-lowering drugs.
Reduce total cholesterol by 30-45%, "bad" cholesterol - by 40-60%.
Increase the concentration of HDL-cholesterol ( good cholesterol) and apolipoprotein A.
Reduces the risk of ischemic complications by 15%, including myocardial infarction and the risk of developing angina pectoris with signs of myocardial ischemia by 25%.
Does not have a mutagenic and carcinogenic effect.

Side effects of statins

The use of statins to lower cholesterol leads to a host of side effects:

Very common: insomnia, asthenic syndrome, headache, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, myalgia.
Nervous system: amnesia, malaise, dizziness, hypoesthesia, paresthesia, peripheral neuropathy.
Digestive system: vomiting, diarrhea, hepatitis, anorexia, cholestatic jaundice, pancreatitis.
Musculoskeletal system:, back pain, muscle cramps, myopathy, arthritis of the joints.
Allergic reactions: skin rash, urticaria, anaphylaxis, Lyell's syndrome, exudative erythema.
Hematopoietic organs: thrombocytopenia.
Metabolism: diabetes mellitus or - lowering blood sugar levels.
, weight gain, obesity, peripheral edema.

Who needs statins to prolong life?

Instructions and advertisements for drugs to lower cholesterol convince people that statins significantly improve the quality of life, reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Numerous studies state that the use of statins has little or no effect on side effects on the body and is effective method prevention of heart attacks and strokes. “Drink them consistently and your bad cholesterol levels will drop and your good cholesterol levels will increase.” Can such statements be trusted and is it just an advertisement for expensive drugs?

In fact, not everything is so simple, and the need for statins for the elderly remains a very controversial issue. To date, the attitude towards statins is very ambiguous:

Some studies support the need for statins in very high level cholesterol, and a decrease in the risk cardiovascular diseases.
Others argue that the side effects and potential health risks for an older person are not comparable to possible benefits such prevention of diseases of the cardiovascular system.

Today, statins are included in the treatment standards in the Russian Federation. a large number cardiac pathologies. Their appointment reduces mortality. This does not mean at all that every patient with arterial hypertension or coronary heart disease should be treated with statins. Also, you can not prescribe them to everyone who is over 45 years old or who simply has high cholesterol levels in the blood.

Mandatory prescription of statins:

for secondary prevention after a heart attack or stroke
they are also indicated for reconstructive operations on the heart and large vessels(for example, in coronary artery bypass grafting)
acute coronary syndrome or myocardial infarction
ischemic disease with high risks of stroke or heart attack - also a reason to take statins.

In this way, for all severe coronary patients, statins are simply necessary to prolong life, there is no other way out. To reduce side effects - the doctor must choose the right drug, control biochemistry (1 time in 3 months), with a 3-fold increase in transaminases, statins should be canceled. The most serious complication of statin treatment is rhabdomyolysis, which is rare.

Doubtful benefit when administered to patients:

low risk
women before menopause
in patients with diabetes

In Russia, in pharmacy chains, you can find the following types of statins with different cholesterol-lowering activities:

Rosuvastatin - lowers cholesterol by 55%
Atorvastatin - by 47%
Simvastatin - by 38%
Fluvastatin - by 29%
Lovastatin - by 25%

Atorvastatin
Name of the drug	Release form	Average price in pharmacies (2018)
Atomax	10 mg. tab. 30 pcs	360-380 rub.
Atorvastatin Canon	10 mg. tabl 30 pcs.	260 -280 rub.
Atoris	30 mg. tabl 30 pcs.	450-480 rub.
Liprimar	10 mg. tabl 30 pcs.	800 rub.
Torvacard	10 mg. tabl 30 pcs	270-300 rub.
Tulip	10 mg. tab. 30 pcs	260-280 rub.
Liptonorm	20 mg. tab. 30 pcs	260-280 rub.
Rosuvastatin
Akorta	10 mg. table 30 pcs	500 rub.
Crestor	10 mg. tab. 7 pcs	650 rub.
Crestor	10 mg. tab. 28 pcs	2500 rub.
Mertenil	5 mg. tab. 30 pcs	450 rub.
Rosuvastatin	10 mg. tab. 30 pcs	290 rub.
Rosucard	10 mg. tab. 90 pcs	1400 rub.
Rosulip	10 mg. tab. 28 pcs	700 rub.
Roxera	10 mg. tab. 30 pcs	500 rub.
Tevastor	5 mg. tab. 30 pcs	350 rub.
Simvastatin
Vasilip	10 mg. tab. 28 pcs	280 rub.
Zokor	10 mg. tab. 28 pcs	160 rub.
Ovenkor	20 mg. tab. 30 pcs	550 rub.
Simvahexal	20 mg. tab. 30 pcs	330 rub.
Simvacard	10 mg. tab. 28 pcs	220 rub.
Simvastatin	10 mg. tab. 20 pcs	180 rub.
Simvastol	10 mg. tab. 28 pcs	200 rub.
Simvor	20 mg. tab. 30 pcs	300 rub.
Simgal	40 mg. tab. 84 pcs	800 rub.
Simlo	10 mg. tab. 28 pcs	180 rub.
Sincard	10 mg. tab. 30 pcs	350 rub.
Lovastatin
Cardiostatin	20 mg. tab. 30 pcs	280 rub.
Choletar	20 mg. tab. 20 pcs	320 rub.
Cardiostatin	40 mg. tab. 30 pcs	400 rub.
Fluvastatin
Leskol Forte	80 mg. tab. 28 pcs	2700 rub.

Some principles for choosing statins

Whether or not to take statins is an individual decision based on the doctor's recommendations. And if a decision is made to take statins, then the choice of the drug should be made by the doctor, taking into account the patient's existing chronic diseases.

Do not take any cholesterol-lowering drugs on your own. In case of lipid metabolism disorders and changes in the analyzes, you should contact a cardiologist or therapist. Let them evaluate your risks taking into account:

sex, age, weight
bad habits
existing diseases of the cardiovascular system and side pathologies (primarily diabetes mellitus).

If a statin is prescribed, it should be taken in the dosages recommended by the doctor, donating blood biochemistry as often as he prescribes. If what is recommended for admission is too expensive, it is worth discussing the possibility of replacing it with a cheaper one, but better original drug. Unfortunately, Russian generics are still inferior in quality not only to original imported drugs, but also to foreign generics.

When prescribing statins to the elderly, it should be borne in mind that their simultaneous use with drugs for gout, hypertension, diabetes mellitus increases the risk of myopathy by 2 times.

If the patient has chronic diseases liver, such patients are better off taking rosuvastatin, but only at low doses, pravastatin (Pravaxol) can be used. These two types of statins protect the liver, but you should never drink alcohol or take antibiotics while taking them.
If the patient has constant pain in muscles, or there is a risk of muscle damage, then the use of the same pravastatin is more appropriate, since it is less toxic to muscles.
In patients with chronic kidney disease, Fluvastin-Lescol, as well as Atorvastatin calcium (Lipitor), should not be used, as they are very toxic to the kidneys.
Patients seeking to lower their low-density cholesterol levels may take different types statins, for example, you can take atorvastatin or rosuvastatin.

To date, there is no convincing data on the advisability of combining statins with nicotinic acid. Besides, a nicotinic acid can cause a drop in sugar in patients with diabetes, provoke bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract, cause exacerbations of gout and increase the risk of myopathies and rhabdomyolysis in simultaneous reception with statins.

A little about research and the potential harm of statins

Previously, guided by the recommendations of American experts, our cardiologists tended to prescribe statins for all cases of coronary disease, as well as arterial hypertension and low risks of cardiovascular pathologies in adults . The Americans also recommended fairly high dosages of drugs (about 80 mg).

However, in autumn 2013 the British medical journal(The BMJ), represented by its editor, Fiona Godley, started a scandal by publishing two comments about statins. They referenced an observational study that showed that 20 percent of patients who took statins experienced adverse events.

The chairman of the statin research group, Rory Collins, who received money from the manufacturers of these drugs, demanded that these articles be retracted. However, an independent commission confirmed the BMJ data.

In Russia, not a single independent study has been conducted in this area, and doctors are actively prescribing these drugs to patients. In the US, physicians prescribe statins to lower cholesterol very frequently; in 2007 alone, the global trade in statins was $40 billion.

According to Canadian scientists, when using statins in patients, the risk of developing increases by 57%), if the patient also suffers from diabetes mellitus + to statins, this risk increases by 82%, this was confirmed by statistical analysis. That is, in older people with diabetes who take statins, the processes leading to cataracts occur 5.6 times faster.

After analyzing the results of 14 clinical studies aimed at studying the effects of statins (34,000 patients), the experts concluded that statins reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks, but due to the presence of serious side effects, they are not recommended for people who have not previously had any heart disease or there were no strokes. Those who regularly take statins have experienced liver dysfunction, cataract development, kidney failure, as well as depression, mood swings, short-term memory lapses, and muscle myopathy.

Low cholesterol is much more dangerous than high cholesterol, and statins can significantly reduce it.

Studies in Germany prove that low cholesterol levels increase the risk of developing cancer, liver disease, the same stroke, nervous diseases, anemia, and even suicide and early mortality.

Low magnesium levels - the risk of stroke and heart attack

Research in the US states that high cholesterol, and low magnesium levels are responsible for heart attacks and strokes in humans. The deficiency of this microelement just leads to an increase in cholesterol, the development of diabetes, hypertension, angina pectoris and arthemia.

The most important function of cholesterol to restore disorders in body tissues can be suppressed by statins

Science knows that any scar tissue of the body, including in the arteries, has in its composition a large number of cholesterol and when the walls of blood vessels are damaged from the accumulation of proteins and under the influence of acids, cholesterol actively repairs these damages. For growth muscle mass and normal life, the body needs precisely low-density fat cells ( bad cholesterol), with a lack of which myalgia occurs (muscle pain, weakness, swelling) and even muscular dystrophy.

Statins lower cholesterol, but is it good for the body?

HMG CoA reductase inhibitors suppress the production of cholesterol by reducing the production of mevalonate, a cholesterol precursor, but is it good? Mevalonate is a source of not only cholesterol, but also a host of other very important substances that perform the necessary biological functions in the body, the lack of which leads to other diseases.

Statins increase the risk of developing diabetes, which in turn provokes an increase in cholesterol.

If a patient constantly takes statins, this increases the likelihood of developing diabetes mellitus (according to various sources, from 10 to 70%). At the same time, it is known that diabetes the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and heart disease increases by 2-4 times. Statins reduce the concentration of the GLUT4 protein in the cell, which is responsible for the level of glucose in the blood. A group of British scientists published a study that was conducted among 10,242 women over 63 years old. They were divided into 2 control groups, one group used statins, the other did not. As a result of the study, it turned out that taking statins by 70% increases the risk of developing after menopause.

Side effects of statins appear slowly, which is not noticeable to the patient and is very dangerous with prolonged use.
Influence on the mental abilities of a person

The human body is biochemically and physiologically a very finely coordinated system, and long-term interference with the natural life process necessarily results in various unexpected consequences. Statins, by inhibiting certain enzymes of cholesterol metabolism, have an effect on the liver. At the same time, people with obesity and a sedentary lifestyle improve their condition for some time. blood vessels. However, with continued intervention in physiological system, there is a violation of more complex processes, for example, there is a decrease in the mental abilities of a person, especially in older people.

High blood cholesterol in a patient under 50 years of age is an indicator of serious disorders in the body - infections, diseases of the digestive system, disorders of carbohydrate metabolism. Cholesterol is not the cause of disease, but a mirror of health, and its rise as "the most important representative of sterols in the body" indicates that it protects, rather than weakens the body. Moreover, the concept of the influence of blood cholesterol levels on the occurrence of atherosclerosis is still only a hypothesis.

Mary Enig is a renowned lipid biochemist and president of the Maryland Dietetic Association. elevated level cholesterol - an invented disease. An increase in cholesterol levels is a protective reaction of the body to inflammation that has arisen, and first of all, it is necessary to find out the factors that harm the body and provoke inflammation. Some famous doctors claim that the real cause of cardiovascular disease is stress, inflammatory processes, diabetes.

In many developed countries of the world, programs to promote cholesterol reduction at the national level were launched 30 years ago, including:

change in diet
to give up smoking
maintaining an active lifestyle
taking statins

And as a result, mortality in the USA, Finland and other countries from cardiovascular diseases has decreased by 50% in 30 years. It is possible that quitting smoking and eating cholesterol-lowering foods increases physical activity- a smarter and safer way to prolong life than the use of modern medicines, which have serious side effects, the testing of which and the study of the effect on the body are still ongoing.

Another argument about the need for a careful assessment of harm and benefit before prescribing statins to older people

In one study of 3,070 people aged 60 and over who take statins, 30% of patients experience the side effect of muscle pain. They often complain that they have become less energetic, they have increased fatigue, great weakness. Such pain is especially intense in people who have just started taking these drugs.

Thus, in a person taking statins, indicators of physical (moderate) activity are reduced by 40 minutes. in Week. Due to muscle pain, people have less motivation to exercise, workout, just to hiking, which in itself brings heart attacks and strokes closer. Moreover, precisely for this reason, due to the lack of physical activity, patients begin to rapidly gain weight, muscles weaken, and there is an additional load on cardiovascular system and as a consequence, the same heart attacks and strokes!!!

Other cholesterol lowering pills - fibrates

There are other pills that reduce cholesterol in the blood - these are derivatives of fibric acid, which, by binding to bile acid, reduce the active production of cholesterol by the liver. Fenofibrates are able to reduce the content of lipids in the body, leading to a decrease in cholesterol levels.

According to clinical studies, it was found that the use of fenofibrates reduces the level total cholesterol by 25%, triglycerides by 40-50% and at the same time good cholesterol increases by 10-30%. The instructions for cholesterol-lowering tablets fenofibrates, ciprofibrates indicate that their use helps to reduce extravascular deposits - tendon xanthomas, reduce triglycerides and cholesterol levels in patients with hypercholesterolemia.

However, the use of these drugs leads to a number of side effects, most often these are various kinds of digestive disorders - vomiting or diarrhea.

Side effects of fenofibrates:

Digestive system: hepatitis, pancreatitis, abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, flatulence, diarrhea, gallstone formation
Bone- muscular system : muscle weakness, diffuse myalgia, rhabdomyolysis, myositis, muscle spasms.
The cardiovascular system: venous thromboembolism, pulmonary embolism.
Nervous system: headaches, sexual dysfunction.
Allergic reactions: photosensitivity, skin itching, skin rash, urticaria.

In order to reduce the dosage of statins, and, therefore, their side effects, statins are sometimes combined with fibrates.

Drugs that reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine

Ezetemib (Ezetrol 14 pieces 1100 rubles, 28 pieces 2000 rubles) is a new lipid-lowering drug, it has the ability to reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine. In addition, Ezetemib, unlike Orlistat (Xenalan, Orsoten, Xenical, etc.), does not cause diarrhea. Daily dose Ezetemibe is recommended - 10 mg.

However, it should be remembered that 80-70% of cholesterol is produced by the body itself and only 20-30% comes from food (% ratio may vary slightly).

Other funds

In general, dietary supplements are not medicines, and homeopathy does not pass the proper clinical trial, therefore, in terms of evidence-based medicine these drugs are significantly inferior to statins in the prevention of premature death or vascular accidents.

Omega 3

Cardiologists in the US strongly recommend that patients with high blood cholesterol take fish oil (omega 3) tablets, which provide protection against cardiovascular disease, as well as the prevention of arthritis and depression. However fish fat should also be taken with caution as it increases the risk of developing chronic pancreatitis.

Tykveol

This is pumpkin seed oil, the use of the drug is recommended for people with hepatitis, cholecystitis. It is a phytopreparation with anti-inflammatory, choleretic, hepatoprotective, antioxidant action.

Lipoic acid

Used for prevention and treatment coronary atherosclerosis, since it is an endogenous antioxidant, it has a positive effect on carbohydrate metabolism, increases glycogen in the liver, and improves neuronal trophism.

vitamin therapy

It also helps maintain normal cholesterol levels. especially needed folic acid, vitamin B12 and B6, nicotinic acid - vitamin B3. However, vitamins should not be synthetic, but natural, that is, the amount of foods rich in these vitamins in the daily diet should be increased (see).

BAA - SitoPren

This is an extract of fir paws, is a source of beta-sitosterol, and also contains polyprenols, is prescribed by a doctor for atherosclerosis, hypertension, high cholesterol and triglycerides.

The article considers only time-tested means by which you can lower blood cholesterol, but you need to understand that any purchase will be possible only after consulting a doctor.

Drugs that lower cholesterol in the blood quickly and effectively

At high cholesterol in the blood, you need to see a doctor for an appointment proper treatment. The drugs are divided into different generations, the safest ones start from the second generation: Leskol Forte - acts for a long time, but there are side effects. 3-4 generations are considered the safest, these include: Atomax, Tulip, Akorta, Rosulil, Tevastor. Quickly and effectively lower cholesterol and do not harm the body.

Cholesterol-lowering drugs, not statins

Preparations for lowering cholesterol in the blood are divided into several groups. There are other drugs besides statins. Probucol lowers cholesterol without lowering triglycerides. Benzavtavin and nicotinic acid contain B vitamins and reduce bad cholesterol levels. The choice of the drug must be agreed with the attending physician so as not to harm the body.

Cholesterol-lowering drugs of plant origin

You don't have to take medication to lower your cholesterol. Folk remedies equally effective in lowering cholesterol levels. Rosehip can be brewed and taken 20 drops per day in strained form. Also, an infusion of chokeberry, hawthorn and strawberries lowers bad cholesterol in the blood. Artichoke leaves effectively fight high cholesterol.

Drugs that lower cholesterol and LDL, cleansing blood vessels of the latest generation list and price

Cholesterol-lowering drugs include Pitavastatin, Cerivastatin, Atorvastatin, and Rosuvastatin. They are quite effective, but the pills must be taken by prescription and then if diets do not help. Fibrates cleanse blood vessels, which reduces the likelihood of thrombosis and lowers blood cholesterol levels.

Prices for drugs that lower bad cholesterol:
1. Pitavastatin 1 mg - 450-500 rubles;
2. Rosuvastatin 5 mg - 150-170 rubles;
3. Atorvastatin 10 mg - 100-120 rubles.

How to reduce cholesterol in pregnant women

Pregnant women are likely to increase cholesterol and in order to get rid of this disease, you need to follow some recommendations. First, be sure to include in the diet Omega-3, which is found in fish. Also use vegetable fats and reduce the intake of animal fats. Among other things, be sure to eat more fruits and vegetables, replace red meat with white, and correct mode nutrition.

Cholesterol-lowering pills Rosuvastatin, Atorvastatin, Rosart

Rosuvastatin and Atorvastatin tablets are used to lower bad cholesterol in the blood. They reduce the likelihood of thrombosis and cleanse the vessels, which leads to improved well-being. Rosart also lowers cholesterol, should be taken at 5 mg per day for 4 weeks. Reception of drugs must be coordinated with the attending physician.

Succinic acid, sold in pharmacies, is a tablet packaged in 50 and 100 mg and is a product of amber processing. Medicine...

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When taking drugs to lower blood cholesterol, you need to follow a low-carbohydrate diet, exclude tobacco and alcohol, and keep an active healthy lifestyle life. For positive result if you need to reduce the amount of cholesterol, it must be remembered that this is possible only with a joint right approach to the problem that has arisen. There are several classes of drugs that have proven effective in this area. If you need to use them, be sure to consult your doctor and he will prescribe the best individual course of therapy. Medicines for high cholesterol are divided into several types.

Available in the pharmacy network wide range drugs to lower blood cholesterol different efficiency and affordability.

Statins as cholesterol-lowering drugs

Effective cholesterol-lowering agents. The most modern developments latest generation preparations based on rosuvastin. It causes the breakdown of harmful compounds, which are called atherosclerotic plaques, which, settling on the walls of blood vessels, lead to irreparable pathologies. The price in pharmacies for such medicines will be higher compared to older releases of medicines, but this is justified. Cleansing the drug is aimed at an increased level of LDL: the amount of HDL increases, as a result of which the risk of atherosclerosis decreases. There is an active splitting of triglycerides, which preserve the fat reserves of cells.

The drug suppresses the biosynthesis of low density lipoproteins. The active functions of CoA reductase are effectively reduced. It promotes the absorption by the liver of "processed" lipoproteins and their breakdown, and then excretion into the intestines. decline increased rate“good” cholesterol in the blood helps to reduce the activity of synthesizing “bad” cholesterol by liver cells.

"Atorvastatin" has a selective effect on the production of mevalonate. The most efficient of them is herbal preparation Rosuvastatin. The main advantage of the latter is that during the treatment with this medicine there are no negative consequences for the liver. He naturally reduces the production of cholesterol in the body, reducing the risk of sedimentation cholesterol plaques on the walls of blood vessels. Since the biosynthesis of low density lipoprotein is maximally increased at night, it is recommended to take the tablets at bedtime.

Treatment with these medicines is prescribed for high cholesterol, if the use of a low-carbohydrate diet for 3-4 months has not brought results. Recommended for use in old age, with a tendency to diabetes or hypertension. Be sure to drink these cholesterol medicines when symptoms of atherosclerosis appear, a diagnosis of coronary heart disease is made, or an increased risk of its occurrence.

Although effective and tolerable in most people, there may be Negative consequences from the use of this class of drugs. This is explained by the fact that in order to obtain a positive result, it is necessary to long-term use during several years. The muscular system of the body is exposed to maximum danger. The muscles of the skeleton are depleted, there are painful symptoms. In this case, a dose reduction is prescribed or the drug is completely stopped, otherwise the risk of muscle fiber breakdown increases every day. This state of the body will lead to acute kidney failure. It is especially dangerous to drink in combination with various antibiotics and fibrates. The risk factor is enhanced by age, chronic diseases; an insufficient amount useful substances coming with food; operations; chronic diseases liver; smoking and alcohol.

When undergoing treatment against cholesterol, it is necessary to constantly monitor a qualified doctor who, in cases of side effects, will adjust the dosage. Regular testing in the laboratory contributes to the timely detection of the occurrence negative impact on the muscle tissue. Side effects may also occur: headache; disorders gastrointestinal tract; sleep disturbance.

The active ingredients underlying the composition can also be found in everyday food or herbs. The correct construction of the daily diet usually eliminates drug treatment. These foods include foods rich in vitamins C, B, omega-3 acids. These are citrus fruits, onions, sea buckthorn, bell pepper, meat products, fish, linseed oils.

Fibrate-based drugs have the ability to lower excess cholesterol in the blood.

fibrate group

Fibrates are often used in medicine to lower cholesterol. When treating with these pills, you should pay attention to the functional work of the liver, since these drugs can cause the development cholelithiasis. With such a diagnosis, the drug is categorically contraindicated. The action is due to the active production of a specific enzyme lipoprotein lipase, which catalyzes metabolic processes fats.

How to be treated with cholesterol absorption inhibitors?

Perhaps the use of inhibitors of absorption (uptake) of cholesterol. From this class the best drug- "Ezesterol", which reduces the level. It is possible to combine its main component - ezetimibe with a similar substance - simvastatin. The effect on cholesterol levels is to reduce the absorption of dietary cholesterol by the intestines. Medical impact these pills are the safest, because medicinal substance does not enter the blood vessels. It is recommended "Ezesterol" to treat those people who have liver pathologies. Doctors add it to the list of statin drugs as an enhancer positive effect. There are no contraindications.

severstants

Cholesterol-reducing substances affect the absorption function of the intestine. Cholesterol absorbed by the liver from the blood vessels goes back through the process of biosynthesis and is excreted. But part of it, getting into the intestines, is absorbed by them back. Agents such as severstants (isolators) help bind powerful compounds that remove cholesterol from the body through the intestines, preventing reabsorption. Then the liver activates the function of synthesizing the missing substance directly from cholesterol and reduces its amount in the vessels. Despite the fact that this remedy does not enter the bloodstream and has few side effects, its use in medical practice very rarely. Representatives of these drugs: "Kolestiramin"; "Colestipol"; Kolesevelam.

Use of nicotinic acid

Represents a high level of efficiency. Of all drugs, it produces the best vasodilating action to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. Recommended for use if "bad" cholesterol is at a high level and it is urgent to clean the arteries from atherosclerotic plaques. The main disadvantage of the drug should immediately be noted - for the result, large doses are prescribed for 1 dose. The required daily volume is up to 6 grams of the substance.

A positive effect is noted after a few days of admission. Cholesterol is lowered by blocking the release of fatty substances. Nowadays oral drug with such characteristics is not available, and long-term use of nicotine injection is strictly prohibited. Plant extracts that are included in the composition are found in liver products, peanuts and seafood. Due to the need to receive large doses drug, side effects develop: dizziness, nausea, abdominal pain and loss of coordination. It is the cause of fatty liver disease. To avoid such incidents, the drug should be taken in combination with B vitamins.

"Probucol" prevents the formation of fatty plaques on the vessels, lowering the production of cholesterol by the liver.

Content reduction cholesterol in the blood to improve heart function means for you lower triglycerides and "sticky" LDL cholesterol(the so-called "bad"), as well as an increase in the level of protective HDL cholesterol ("good").

Every 1% reduction in LDL will give you a reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease by about 1%. At the same time, from a 1% increase in HDL, your cardiovascular risks can decrease by 2-4%! HDL also appears to have anti-inflammatory (antioxidant) effects.

Thus, it is desirable to lower triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels, but HDL increase might be even more helpful. Oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which increases its "stickiness", appears to be more high factor risk than elevated LDL. Half of all heart attacks occur in people with normal level cholesterol.

The degree of oxidation of cholesterol with high accuracy can be determined by the content of C-reactive protein (CRP) in the blood. Low levels CRP (<1,0) предсказывают снижение риска сердечно-сосудистых заболеваний (а также диабета и онкологических заболеваний). Повышение ЛПВП и уменьшение окисления холестерина оказывает очень хорошее защитное действие на сердечно-сосудистую систему.

1. Eat More Omega-3 Fats and Take Coenzyme Q10

Take daily fish oil supplements with food to increase HDL and lower LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides and improve C-reactive protein (CRP). The American Heart Association recommends 2-4 grams (2000-4000 mg) of DHA + EPA* daily to lower triglycerides; 1 gram (1000 mg) of DHA + EPA daily will provide protection against cardiovascular disease.

Try to also eat more wild salmon or sardines, as they are high in healthy omega-3 fatty acids and low in mercury. Sockeye salmon (red salmon) contains more than other types of salmon, the extremely powerful antioxidant astaxanthin, but at the same time, red salmon is difficult to farm. Eating cold-water oily fish (but not fried) or taking fish oil also reduces the risk of depression and arthritis.

Coenzyme Q10 at 90mg per day helps raise blood levels of DHA by 50%. Please note that taking statins (cholesterol-lowering medicines) can lead to a decrease in Q10 levels in the body.

* - DHA and EPA - essential fatty acids of the Omega-3 class

2. Eat More Avocados, Nuts and Seeds, and Olive Oil

These foods are rich in phytosterols (also known as plant sterols), which are effective in helping to regulate cholesterol levels. Phytosterols can also be taken in supplement form.

Avocados are the richest in a fraction of phytosterols called beta-sitosterol. Eating at least half an avocado a day for three weeks could result in an 8% reduction in total cholesterol (versus 5% on a low-fat diet), lower triglycerides, and a 15% increase in HDL cholesterol. %. In one study, avocados reduced LDL levels by 22%. Avocado contains about 76 mg of beta-sitosterol per 100 g (7 tablespoons of avocado).

Sesame seeds, wheat germ, and brown rice bran have the highest total phytosterol content (400 mg), followed by pistachios and seeds (300 mg), pumpkin seeds (265 mg) and pine nuts, flaxseed, and almonds (200 mg) per 100 g weight. Eating 2 ounces (56 grams) of almonds a day has been shown to lower LDL by 7% and raise HDL by 6%.

A tablespoon of olive oil contains about 22 mg of phytosterols (150 mg per 100 g). Replacing saturated fats with monounsaturated fats, such as those found in olive oil, can lower LDL by as much as 18%. Olive oil (especially unfiltered) relaxes the endothelium on the walls of blood vessels and reduces inflammation. In one study, olive oil consumption raised HDL by 7%, despite volunteers' diets containing high-glycemic foods. Rice bran oil and grape seed oil have also shown good results in improving the LDL/HDL ratio.

3. Eliminate Trans Fats (Hydrogenated and Partially Hydrogenated Fats)

It has been shown that a 1% reduction in dietary calories from trans fats can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by at least 50%. This means that if you remove 20 calories from trans fats from your daily 2,000 calories (only 2 grams!), you will get amazing results! Remember that a food label will say "Free of trans fats" if the food contains less than 0.5 grams per serving, so also look for the words "hydrogenated" or "saturated" in the ingredients list. Even small amounts of trans fats can contribute to inflammation, diabetes, and an increased risk of heart attack and cancer.

4. Provide yourself with magnesium

Eat more of the rich magnesium foods such as pumpkin seeds, wheat germ, salmon, soybeans, and whole grains. Endothelial cells that line arterioles lose their ability to repel hydrogenated fats if their environment is deficient in magnesium. It is estimated that about 70% of US residents suffer from a lack of magnesium.

Magnesium is a neuromuscular relaxant. It also helps repair damaged cells, calcium absorption, helps lower blood pressure, and can reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks by up to 40%. In one study, magnesium was shown to actually act like a statin drug, lowering LDL and raising HDL, but without the side effects. You should either ensure adequate magnesium in your diet or take about 250mg of magnesium twice a day as a supplement (preferably along with calcium).

5. Cut down on sugar

Reducing the glycemic index of foods consumed (to an average of 46 versus 61 on a 100-point sugar scale) within a week increases HDL by 7%. One study found three times higher CRP levels in women who ate high glycemic foods compared to those who ate low glycemic foods. Blood sugar surges increase the stickiness (glycosylation) of red blood cells.

6. Eat more soluble plant fiber, take prebiotics and probiotics

Oats and oat bran, brown rice bran, peas, legumes (especially soy), lentils, flaxseed, okra, and eggplant are good sources of soluble fiber. Oat bran (100 g per day) reduced LDL by 14% in men with elevated cholesterol levels.

Types of plant fibers that are not digested but promote fermentation and feed some beneficial bacteria (called probiotics) in the colon are called prebiotics (eg, inulin, fructooligosaccharides, or soy oligosaccharides). In addition, inulin with a moderate carbohydrate content reduces the deposition of fat in the liver and the content of triacylglycerides in the blood plasma. Probiotics can lower LDL (5 - 8% of strains Lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidobacteria longum) and increase HDL by as much as 25% in the presence of prebiotics such as oligofructose or inulin.

7. Take Vitamin D3

Recently, it has been found that vitamin D (the "sunshine vitamin") is extremely important for the body for many reasons, and its high doses are much less toxic than previously thought. Recent studies have shown that even small daily doses of 500 I.U. Vitamin D supplementation has helped to reduce CRP by 25% in seriously ill patients, and some patients have experienced a significant increase in HDL after taking vitamin D supplements. Elevated vitamin D levels are now associated with a reduced risk of death from any cause, including heart attack.

A glass of milk contains 100 I.U. vitamin D; in 100 g of sockeye salmon - about 675 I.U. vitamin D3. Under direct sunlight, 10,000-20,000 IU can be produced in bare skin. on a sunny day (no sunscreen), but most US residents seem to have insufficient vitamin D levels (even in the US South). Scientists are going to conduct a massive experiment, with a daily intake of 2000 I.U. vitamin D3 for 2-3 months in order to determine the optimal need for vitamin D from the results of blood monitoring.

Do not take vitamin D supplements unless you have a doctor's supervision if you have sarcoidosis, or if you have liver, kidney, or parathyroid disease.

8. Eat More Blue, Purple, and Red Fruits

Polyphenols in blueberries, pomegranate, cranberries, red grapes, and unfiltered olive oil help increase HDL. If you eat about 5 ounces (150 g) of berries, puree or nectar per day (blueberries, lingonberries, blackcurrants, strawberries, raspberries and chokeberries), HDL can increase by 5% in 8 weeks. After 1 month of drinking 6 ounces of pure cranberry juice daily (usually diluted with 3 parts water), HDL increased by 10%. Cranberry juice increases plasma antioxidant levels and HDL-cholesterol levels. This corresponds to an approximately 20-40% reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease.

You can also mix unsweetened cranberry juice with pomegranate juice, red grape juice, and/or blueberry juice. Red wine has some controversy as the increase in HDL does not extend to the most beneficial fraction of HDL-2B. Alcohol can also raise triglycerides, but red grape skins and possibly crushed grape pits can lower cholesterol. Grape seed extract is similar to pycnogenol and both may also play a role in lowering blood cholesterol levels.

Because alcohol also contributes to hypertension, liver disease, breast cancer, weight gain, and is addictive and accident-prone, the American Heart Association does not recommend wine as a cholesterol-lowering drug. But resveratrol, found in red wine, red grapes, peanuts, and Foti (Chinese herb), can be used as a supplement, with the same benefits.

9. Try something new

Try niacin (nicotinic acid), dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa), curcumin (turmeric extract), kale juice, or hibiscus tea to boost your HDL levels. Use vitamin K2 to move calcium from arterial plaque to bone. Reduce LDL and cancer risk with oriental mushrooms (boiled for at least 5 minutes).

10. Exercise, relax, smile more

Exercise reduces inflammation, raises HDL, helps insulin control blood sugar, and reduces stress. Maintaining physical fitness (at least 30 minutes of exercise 4 to 5 times a week or walking more than 130 minutes a week) reduces the risk of death from cardiovascular disease by about 50%, regardless of cholesterol levels.

Observations of elderly people leading a sedentary lifestyle showed that within 6 months their CRP worsened by 15%, that is, by the same amount as when taking statins. Exercise improves CRP and raises HDL. Rest and laughter also help. In rabbits on an atherogenic diet, the development of atherosclerosis was reduced by 60% when the female student who fed the rabbits also caressed them.

People with both heart failure and mild depression were 44% more likely to die within 5 years than those without depression. In heart attack patients who were shown funny videos or comedies for an hour every day, the frequency of recurrent heart attacks in the next year was five times lower. Laughter improves circulation, lowers blood pressure and releases stress hormones.

Note: lowering cholesterol too much can increase the risk of depression, aggression, and cerebral hemorrhage. Cholesterol is essential for the formation of brain cells, memory, fighting infection and cancer (as well as for the production of hormones, including vitamin D). The main thing is to reduce inflammation and cholesterol oxidation, along with a healthy diet, exercise and rest, and, if possible, increase beneficial HDL.

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Cholesterol pills are highly effective medicines that can lower cholesterol levels and prevent the development of atherosclerosis. The effectiveness of drugs in this group is due to their effect on low-density lipoproteins. They wash away fatty alcohol, thereby preventing its accumulation. The main factor contributing to the increase in cholesterol levels is malnutrition and the abuse of fat-containing foods.

Atherosclerosis is the scourge of the current generation, since excessive and rapid accumulation of cholesterol occurs due to concomitant factors, including: a sedentary lifestyle, stress and poor ecology. The worst thing is that it is impossible to insure yourself against an increase in the level of cholesterol in the blood, and atherosclerosis occurs even in the younger generation. But do not despair prematurely, because modern traditional and alternative medicine offer various means to lower cholesterol. With their help, you can not only get rid of high cholesterol, but also strengthen blood vessels and normalize heart function. But in an effort to normalize your cholesterol, you must not forget that there are 2 types of this substance.

There is a so-called "good" cholesterol, which is part of cell membranes and promotes the synthesis of hormones. Its presence in the body is simply necessary, and before taking any medication to lower high cholesterol, donate blood for tests and make sure you need it.

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fatty alcohol or lipid that is part of the cell wall and creates its shape and density. The lipid, which is necessary as a building material, is produced in the body itself. Lipids or lipoproteins are of high and low density.

High-density lipoproteins (HDL) are substances that include: protein, phospholipids, cholesterol and triglycerides. High-density lipids are called good cholesterol because they are formed in the body and benefit it. The production of HDL is carried out by the liver, therefore, in addition to the building material, lipids are used for the synthesis of organic substances and hormones. Excess HDL is oxidized in the liver and excreted in the bile.

There is also the so-called "bad" cholesterol. It is “bad” because it is this substance that causes an increase in the level of cholesterol in the blood and the development of atherosclerosis.

This type of substance includes low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Low-density lipids are 40% cholesterol, which quickly becomes part of the tissues. What the body needs to strengthen its own tissues and organs, it spends, everything else is left “in reserve”. It is the excess of low-density lipoproteins that affects the arteries and contributes to the development of thrombosis and atherosclerosis. High lipid levels of NP require treatment.

Scheme of cholesterol metabolism

If a young body can still withstand negative factors and cleanse itself of LDL on its own, then for the older generation, to lower cholesterol, it is better to use special tools that will help remove LDL and leave LDL levels normal.

What causes high cholesterol?

There are many reasons associated with elevated blood lipid levels. Among the most common factors is malnutrition. Food is not only a source of energy, but also a building material. The human body is capable of self-purification and restoration, but if the bad substances in the body are more than normal, then it is not able to remove them in a timely manner, and they are deposited in the form of body fat. The same goes for cholesterol. "Good" lipids are transported into cells, and LDL accumulates in tissues.

Diet to lower blood cholesterol levels

If the body has a high level of "bad" cholesterol, then the liver gradually stops producing HDL. 70% of all cholesterol is synthesized by the liver, the remaining 30% are taken from food. In a healthy body, this process is balanced, and the slightest fluctuations can cause disruption of all metabolic processes. Of course, high cholesterol is not formed in 1 day, and this process requires a long-term intake of excess LDL, but even if there is one risk factor for increasing its level, you need to think about lowering it, because the growth of low-density lipids is an irreversible process that affects blood vessels .

The concept of "good" and "bad" cholesterol

It is possible and even necessary to control your LDL level. Modern medicine offers several ways to control cholesterol levels. The first is laboratory. To donate blood for cholesterol, you can visit any medical center or clinic and donate blood from a finger. There is also another new generation method - a mini-laboratory that can be used at home. To obtain results, you need to apply a little blood to a piece of paper that reacts to lipids, staining it in the color spectrum of which the results relate.

A biochemical blood test is the most reliable, but it does not show exactly an increase in HDL or LDL, but their level together. This result is called "total cholesterol". To find out which of the values is above the norm, you need to create a lipid profile. It shows the level of both alpha lipids (“good”) and beta lipids (“bad”). To calculate whether the level of lipoproteins in the blood is elevated or not, it is necessary to establish the atherogenic coefficient. To do this, you can use the formula:

KA = (level of "total" cholesterol - high density lipoproteins) / high density lipoproteins;
CA is calculated by age. Normally, it should not exceed 3. But with age, the results can vary up to 3.5-4.

What should be normal cholesterol?

Cholesterol levels are determined by two factors: age and gender. For men and women, children and the elderly, normal cholesterol levels are different. This is due to several factors:

women are more prone to the accumulation of body fat;
with age, the tone of cells and blood vessels decreases.

To establish whether the results are normal or not, doctors use general indicators. That is, a certain range of results, which is within the normal range.

Ideally, the rate of "total" cholesterol for an adult is: 3 - 5.5 g / mol.
HDL for men 0.8 - 1.2 g / mol. HDL for women 0.9 - 2.8 g / mol.
LDL for men 2.1 - 4.2 g / mol. LDL for women 1.9 - 4.8 g / mol.

The value of the norm increases with age, so the indicators can grow up to 7 g / mol.

How to lower cholesterol with drugs?

Modern pharmacology offers many drugs to cleanse the blood of high lipid levels. Taking medication is a safe and gentle method of treating atherosclerosis at home. The effectiveness of drugs is due to the fact that they have a better effect on low-density lipids and reduce their content in the body. The list of the most effective drugs includes:

Statins.

Statins for cholesterol are the most popular group of drugs. They are on the list of the most effective drugs for lowering high LDL. The principle of their action is to block the enzyme that is responsible for the production of cholesterol. Statins to lower cholesterol are taken daily, often at bedtime. The effectiveness of lipid lowering depends on the time of day, so based on when to take statins, it is possible to completely or partially block the production of the enzyme.

About cleaning the vessels of the legs with folk remedies

There is an opinion that statins for lowering cholesterol negatively affect the liver, but new generation drugs can not only reduce lipid levels, but also repair cell damage. Statins are not addictive and have almost no side effects, so even children can take them.

fibrates.

This group of drugs affects lipid metabolism. Unlike statins, fibrates act on HDL. It is necessary to take fibrates in courses. The amount of medication depends on the level of lipids in the blood. Fibrates not only block the supply of LDL, but also stimulate the production of HDL. It is strongly not recommended to take fibrates with statins.

Cholesterol absorption inhibitors (ICA).

This is not the most common group of drugs, and so far only one IAH analog can be purchased at the pharmacy - the Ezetrol drug. Cholesterol is reduced by blocking the absorption of lipids from the intestines. The drug is not absorbed into the blood and is excreted from the body unchanged. You can take IAH with statins.

"Ezetrol" is taken to lower cholesterol

A nicotinic acid.

Another medicine for lowering cholesterol is niacin or nicotinic acid. These cholesterol pills block the production of lipids, and a significant decrease in their content in the blood is noticed. Nicotinic acid acts only on fatty acids, so after taking it, an improvement in blood microcirculation is observed.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs).

The action of PUFA preparations is due to an increase in receptors in the liver, which increase oxidation and thereby lower lipid levels. Medicines of this group have almost no contraindications, but due to low efficiency, a long course of treatment is necessary.

Bile acid sequestrants.

The action of severants is based on the binding of cholesterol and increased production of bile acids. The opposite effect is observed with a low level of lipids in the blood. To obtain a visible effect, it is necessary to take medication for at least a month.

Treatment of atherosclerosis with drugs is safe and effective. Cholesterol-lowering drugs work exclusively on LDL, so they can be taken by people of all ages.

How to lower cholesterol without drugs?

If you do not want to take drugs against LDL, then traditional medicine offers many alternative remedies that will help normalize blood lipids. But to achieve good results, you need to follow simple rules to avoid an increase in lipid levels.

Eliminate alcohol consumption. Alcohol blocks the liver, and it does not synthesize cholesterol, accumulating it in the tissues. You can drink alcohol in rare cases and not more than 50 grams.
Review your diet. Include as many plant foods as possible in it and exclude the consumption of fatty and fried foods.

avocado;
pistachios;
berries;
oatmeal and cereals;
legumes;
cabbage;
greens;
sea fish;
flax seeds;
sesame;
almond;
olive oil.

Proper nutrition will speed up the cleansing of the body from atherosclerotic plaques and normalize the production of "good" lipids, so if you regularly take the above products, you can get rid of cholesterol without additional treatment.

Foods that lower blood cholesterol

One of the most effective means to reduce "bad" cholesterol is honey. Honey accelerates the synthesis of lipids and cleanses blood vessels, so if you eat honey regularly, you can forget about atherosclerosis forever. Honey can be eaten in liquid form, or you can add honey and a little cinnamon to warm water and drink it on an empty stomach. You can also add honey to medicinal decoctions and just drink it with tea.

For the treatment of atherosclerosis with folk remedies, you can use one of the recipes:

Mix 100 grams of motherwort, dill and cudweed and pour 1 liter of water. Bring to a boil and set aside for an hour. Let cool, strain, add honey and drink 1 cup 2-3 times a day.
Grind 100 grams of flaxseed, add currant leaves and honey. Pour boiling water and insist in a thermos for 2-3 hours. Strain and drink 250 ml. after meal.
Grind 150 grams of mountain ash in a blender. Squeeze out the juice and dilute with 500 ml. boiling water. Add honey and drink 100 ml. before meals.
Grind licorice root. Squeeze out the juice and add honey to it. Drink 50 ml. juice, drinking it with water in the morning and at night.
Finely chop 150 grams of wild rose and pour 300 ml. vodka. Add honey.

Insist in a dark place for a week. Drink 25-30 drops per glass of warm water 2-3 times a day against high cholesterol.

No less effective in reducing the concentration of lipids and natural juices. For juicing, you can take any fruit or vegetable and drink at least 1 glass of freshly squeezed fresh juice per day.