Folk remedies to lower cholesterol. Cholesterol Cure


The peculiarity of drugs for lowering cholesterol in the blood lies in their powerful effect on the human body. They help cleanse blood vessels and protect against problems of inadequate blood circulation.

Taking these medicines is necessary when non-drug therapy (sports, diet food) does not bring positive results.

Pharmaceutical companies offer several groups of drugs that are suitable for lowering cholesterol. To figure out which are the most effective, it is important to know their characteristics and features.

The importance of normalizing cholesterol levels

An increase in cholesterol in the blood fluid can cause many diseases. However, it is worth remembering that this substance is divided into good cholesterol and bad. The presence of the first is necessary for participation in most vital processes (the synthesis of hormones, the construction of membranes at the cellular level).

In turn, the content in the body bad cholesterol often leads to the development of diseases of the heart and blood vessels. This is due to the fact that lipoproteins that have low density, may lead to vascular walls sclerotic plaques begin to form.

To eliminate such an unfavorable factor, in most cases, anticholesterol drugs are prescribed.

Prerequisites for taking medication

Some symptoms may indicate an increase in cholesterol:

If you suspect a pathology, you should contact medical institution for biochemical analysis blood. If the result showed high values, the doctor will prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Cholesterol-lowering medications are used when other methods have not been effective.

In addition, the prerequisites for drug treatment are:

  • coronary heart disease, which increases the risk of developing a heart attack;
  • hereditary predisposition;
  • a history of stroke or heart attack;
  • coronary artery disease.

You can not lower cholesterol with drugs in the following cases:

  • there is no threat to the life and health of the patient against the background of a stroke or heart attack;
  • the woman has not reached menopause;
  • a history of diabetes mellitus.

Regardless of the indications, you can not select the drug yourself. To prescribe therapy, you must consult a doctor.

Classification

To date, manufacturers offer many drugs for high cholesterol. The choice of drugs in each case is carried out individually, which makes it possible to choose the optimal remedy that has a minimum side effects.

All drugs are classified into several groups:

Means can be issued in the form of tablets from cholesterol or capsules.

Preparations based on nicotinic acid

Tablets nicotinic acid contribute to a decrease in the concentration of low-density lipoproteins by suppressing their production. The answer to the question of how this process, has not been received to date.

Meanwhile, experts have confirmed that if you take the drug in in large numbers can significantly reduce the risk of atherosclerosis.

Among the adverse reactions are:

  • the heat that the patient feels in the upper region of the trunk and face;
  • the appearance of allergic reactions;
  • increased glucose values ​​in patients with diabetes mellitus;
  • system malfunction digestive tract.

In this regard, the intake of nicotinic acid should begin with a small dose with a gradual increase. During the entire time of treatment with this drug, the patient should be under the supervision of a doctor.

Contraindications include:

  • ulcer and gastritis of the stomach;
  • chronic hepatitis;
  • gout;
  • pathology of the heart (a decrease or increase in heart rate may be observed).

One of the most effective means containing this substance is Enduracin.

Bile acid sequestrants

Drugs belonging to this group reduce cholesterol levels by combining bile acids and converting them into compounds that do not dissolve in water. However, the human body cannot do without them and receives the substance through extraction from cholesterol.. As a result of such processes, there is a decrease in the number of pathogenic lipoproteins in the blood composition.

Main advantages:

  • no side effect;
  • there is no systemic effect.

Flaws:

  • positive result will be noticeable only after a few weeks with regular use of the drug;
  • there is no improvement vascular system;
  • the process of saturation with vitamins and essential substances is disrupted.

Sequestrants are taken in increased doses, they must be washed down with plenty of water. As a result, malfunctions may occur. digestive system, which is accompanied by nausea, constipation or diarrhea, bloating.

Among the most the best means this category:

  1. cholestyramine. This is a powdered agent from which a suspension is prepared. The substance of the same name, present in the composition, helps to reduce absorption fatty acids and cholesterol, as well as stimulating the production of bile acid in the liver, due to which harmful cholesterol begins to be consumed.
  2. Cholestipol. It contains an anion exchange resin, which is involved in the process of combining bile acids and their transformation into compounds that do not dissolve in liquid. The action of the drug reduces the amount dangerous cholesterol, while retaining useful HDL ().

Because this group is different local impact, they do not give negative effects of a systemic nature. To prevent pathological processes in the digestive organs, increasing the dose should occur at a slow pace until the desired destination.

In addition, it is worth noting that sequestrants may impair the absorption of other medications. In this regard, they are taken four hours before or one hour after using another remedy.

Fibrates

Basically prescribe drugs from the list below:

  1. Bezafibrate. Tablets not only help to reduce lipid fats, but also improve general state patients diagnosed with angina pectoris and ischemia. The names of such funds: Oralipin, Benzamidin, Tsedur. The duration of therapy is 30 days. This is followed by a break for a month.
  2. Gemfibrozil. Lowers triglycerides, the number of low-density fats and helps to accelerate the withdrawal of cholesterol. The effect can be seen after 30 days of taking the tablets. Because the substance is long time is stored in the blood fluid, it is allowed to take short breaks in treatment, the therapeutic effect will be present.
  3. This is fibrate. Its action lowers blood viscosity and blood clots. In most cases, pharmacies sell a drug that has a similar effect, called Lipo-Merz. The drug is taken once a day after eating.

Fibrates are contraindicated in:

side effects include:

  • anemia;
  • headache;
  • allergy;
  • disorders of the digestive tract;
  • drowsiness;
  • dizziness;
  • alopecia.

It should be noted that negative consequences are rare.

Statins

These are the most popular anti-cholesterol tablets of all groups.

Among the means of the first generation are:

  • Pravastatin;
  • Lovastatin.

They have a positive effect on the production good cholesterol and are assigned if a high is observed. good remedy considered simvastatin. If you take it for a long time, there is an elimination of spasms of blood vessels and a decrease in blood pressure.

2nd generation statins:

  • Leskol forte;
  • Leskol.

They are prescribed in extreme cases due to the high risk of side effects..

3rd generation drugs:

  • Liptonorm;
  • Tulip.

They have a smaller list of negative actions. At the heart of each drug is atorvastatin.

New generation drugs:

  • Livazo;
  • Roxer;
  • Rosucard;
  • Crestor.

Patients should remember that self-administration of statins is prohibited. The appointment is carried out exclusively by the attending physician. If you ignore the doctor's prescriptions, then the likelihood of some side effects increases, which is accompanied by:

  • nausea and vomiting;
  • headaches, dizziness;
  • heart rhythm disturbances;
  • flatulence, constipation or diarrhea;
  • pain in muscles and joints;
  • swelling, allergies, itching;
  • disruption of the kidneys and liver.

Contraindications for admission:

  • predisposition to allergic reaction;
  • intolerance to components;
  • diseases of the liver and kidneys;
  • period of pregnancy and breastfeeding;
  • disturbances in the work of the endocrine system.

As a rule, fourth-generation statins give a quick effect, which can be seen already in the first month of use.

Herbal preparations

It is permissible to use the funds of this group only with a slight excess of the indicator or as an addition to the main therapy.

The following products have a good anticholesterol effect:

  • raspberry;
  • chokeberry;
  • viburnum;
  • hawthorn;
  • celery, garlic and carrots help cleanse blood vessels;
  • yarrow, linden, motherwort, oats improve liver function and lower cholesterol.

Dandelion roots help to improve the activity of the digestive system, enrich the body with essential substances, and prevent the absorption of cholesterol from food.

dietary supplement

Among the biologically active additives, the most popular are the following:

  1. Chepar;
  2. Vita norm;
  3. Artemisin;
  4. Lecithin Granules.

Alternatively, apply:

  1. Atherol. It has an action that helps cleanse the blood and liver, and also controls the weight of the patient. Produced in the form of capsules. In addition, the tool normalizes the activity of the digestive tract, is aimed at splitting harmful compounds and removing them from the human body.
  2. Choledol. Improves lipid metabolism, reduces the concentration of cholesterol, restores blood flow. The drug does not give side effects and contributes to a rapid improvement in well-being.

Equally popular are Alfalfa Anticholesterol and Ateroklefit. The peculiarity of saponins present in alfalfa lies in their complex therapeutic action.

They not only prevent the formation of negative cholesterol, but also prevent vascular atherosclerosis, increase immune defense have an antitumor effect.

Is there a difference in the use of drugs for women and men?

The duration of treatment for men and women, as well as the dosage of drugs, are the same.

Medications are taken according to the prescription and the proposed scheme of the attending physician.

Drugs during pregnancy

If, when deciphering a biochemical blood test, it is revealed that the cholesterol value has significantly exceeded the norm, medication treatment is prescribed. Most often, the doctor prescribes the means of the statin group, which have effective action. However, it is worth remembering that during pregnancy, these drugs are contraindicated.

In such a situation, pregnant women are prescribed Hofitol. Permissible rate- no more than three tablets per day. Do not self-medicate. To get an appointment, it is better to seek help from a specialist.

Most requested medicines

Among the cheap, but effective means are:

  • lipoic acid;
  • Symbol;
  • garlic tablets;
  • Simvahexal;
  • Simvacard.

The most popular and frequently prescribed are:

  1. Aterol is one of the most effective drugs in the fight against high cholesterol. Among its main advantages are the absence negative consequences, short treatment (about three courses of administration are enough), natural ingredients in the composition.
  2. New generation statins and simvastatin.
  3. Ezetrol is a little-known remedy, but effective. Its action is aimed at preventing the absorption of cholesterol, while not blocking the process, but slowing it down.
  4. Fish fat with Omega-3.

If blood biochemistry shows an excess, you should contact a specialist who will prescribe the appropriate treatment. If you do not take any measures to reduce the indicator, then the risk of developing serious consequences increases, which can provoke a stroke and heart attack.

Drug therapy of lipid metabolism disorders is prescribed if a lipid-lowering diet is ineffective, rational physical activity and weight loss within 6 months. At the level total cholesterol in the blood above 6.5 mmol / l, drugs can be prescribed earlier than this period.

To correct lipid metabolism, anti-atherogenic (lipipidemic) agents are prescribed. The purpose of their use is to reduce the level of "bad" cholesterol (total cholesterol, triglycerides, very low lipoproteins (VLDL) and low density lipoproteins (LDL)), which slows down the development of vascular atherosclerosis and reduces the risk of its development. clinical manifestations: , heart attack, stroke and other diseases.

Lipid-lowering agents:

  1. Anion exchange resins and drugs that reduce the absorption (assimilation) of cholesterol in the intestine.
  2. A nicotinic acid.
  3. Probucol.
  4. fibrates.
  5. Statins (inhibitors of the enzyme 3-hydroxymethyl-glutaryl-coenzyme-A-reductase).

Depending on the mechanism of action, cholesterol-lowering drugs can be divided into several groups.

Drugs that prevent the synthesis of atherogenic lipoproteins ("bad cholesterol"):

  • statins;
  • fibrates;
  • a nicotinic acid;
  • probucol;
  • benzaflavin.

Means that slow down the absorption of cholesterol from food in the intestines:

  • bile acid sequestrants;
  • Guarem.

Lipid metabolism correctors that increase the level of "good cholesterol":

  • essentiale;
  • lipostabil.


Bile acid sequestrants

Medicines that bind bile acids (cholestyramine, colestipol) are anion exchange resins. Once in the intestines, they “capture” bile acids and remove them from the body. The body begins to experience a lack of bile acids necessary for normal life. Therefore, the liver starts the process of synthesizing them from cholesterol. Cholesterol is "taken" from the blood, as a result, its concentration there decreases.

Cholestyramine and colestipol are available as powders. daily dose should be divided into 2 - 4 doses, consumed by diluting the drug in a liquid (water, juice).

Anion exchange resins are not absorbed into the blood, acting only in the intestinal lumen. Therefore, they are quite safe and do not have serious undesirable effects. Many experts believe that it is necessary to start the treatment of hyperlipidemia with these drugs.

Side effects include bloating, nausea, and constipation, less commonly liquid stool. To prevent these symptoms, it is necessary to increase fluid intake and dietary fiber(fiber, bran).
With long-term use of these drugs in high doses Possible gastrointestinal disturbance folic acid and some vitamins, mostly fat-soluble.

Bile acid sequestrants reduce the concentration of "bad" cholesterol in the blood. The content of triglycerides does not change or even increases. If the patient has an initial elevated level triglycerides, anion exchange resins should be combined with drugs from other groups that reduce the level of this fraction of blood lipids.

Drugs that inhibit the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine

By slowing down the absorption of cholesterol from food in the intestines, these drugs reduce its concentration in the blood.
The most effective of this group of funds is guar. It's vegetable food supplement obtained from the seeds of hyacinth beans. It contains a water-soluble polysaccharide, which forms a kind of jelly upon contact with the liquid in the intestinal lumen.

Guarem mechanically removes cholesterol molecules from the intestinal walls. It accelerates the excretion of bile acids, leading to an increased uptake of cholesterol from the blood to the liver for their synthesis. The drug suppresses appetite and reduces the amount of food eaten, which leads to a decrease in weight and blood lipids.
Guarem is available in granules, which should be added to the liquid (water, juice, milk). The drug should be combined with other anti-atherosclerotic drugs.

Side effects include bloating, nausea, intestinal pain, and sometimes loose stools. However, they are slightly expressed, rarely occur, with continued therapy they disappear on their own.

A nicotinic acid

Nicotinic acid and its derivatives (enduracin, niceritrol, acipimox) is a vitamin of group B. It reduces the concentration of "bad cholesterol" in the blood. Nicotinic acid activates the fibrinolysis system, reducing the ability of the blood to form blood clots. This tool is more effective than other lipid-lowering drugs increases the concentration of "good cholesterol" in the blood.

Treatment with nicotinic acid is carried out for a long time, with a gradual increase in dose. Before and after taking it, it is not recommended to drink hot drinks, especially coffee.

This medicine can irritate the stomach, so it is not prescribed for gastritis and peptic ulcer. Many patients experience redness of the face at the beginning of treatment. Gradually, this effect disappears. To prevent it, it is recommended to take 325 mg of aspirin 30 minutes before taking the drug. In 20% of patients, itching is noted.

Treatment with nicotinic acid preparations is contraindicated in gastric and duodenal ulcers, chronic hepatitis, heavy , .

Enduracin is a long-acting nicotinic acid drug. It is much better tolerated, causes a minimum of side effects. They can be treated for a long time.

Probucol

The drug well reduces the levels of both "good" and "bad" cholesterol. The drug does not affect the level of triglycerides.

The drug removes LDL from the blood, accelerates the excretion of cholesterol with bile. It inhibits lipid peroxidation, exhibiting an anti-atherosclerotic effect.

The effect of the remedy appears two months after the start of treatment and lasts up to six months after its termination. It can be combined with any other means to lower cholesterol.

Under the influence of the drug, it is possible to lengthen the Q-T interval on the electrocardiogram and develop severe ventricular. During its reception, it is necessary to repeat the electrocardiogram at least once every 3-6 months. You can not appoint probucol simultaneously with cordarone. Other unwanted effects include bloating and abdominal pain, nausea, and sometimes loose stools.

Probucol is contraindicated in ventricular arrhythmias associated with prolonged Q-T interval, frequent episodes of myocardial ischemia, as well as with an initial low level of HDL.

Fibrates

Fibrates effectively reduce the level of triglycerides in the blood, to a lesser extent the concentration LDL cholesterol and VLDL. They are used in cases of significant hypertriglyceridemia. The most commonly used are the following:

  • gemfibrozil (Lopid, Gevilon);
  • fenofibrate (lipantil 200 M, tricor, exlip);
  • ciprofibrate (lipanor);
  • choline fenofibrate (trilipix).

Side effects include muscle damage (pain, weakness), nausea and abdominal pain, liver dysfunction. Fibrates may increase the formation of calculi (stones) in gallbladder. In rare cases, under the influence of these drugs, hematopoiesis is suppressed with the development of leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and anemia.

Fibrates are not prescribed for diseases of the liver and gallbladder, hematopoiesis disorders.

Statins

Statins are the most effective lipid-lowering agents. They block the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of cholesterol in the liver, while its content in the blood decreases. At the same time, the number of receptors for LDL increases, which leads to an accelerated extraction of “bad cholesterol” from the blood.
The most commonly prescribed drugs are:

  • simvastatin (vasilip, zokor, ovenkor, simvahexal, simvacard, simvakol, simvastin, simvastol, simvor, simlo, syncard, holvasim);
  • lovastatin (cardiostatin, choletar);
  • pravastatin;
  • atorvastatin (anvistat, atokor, atomaks, ator, atorvox, atoris, vazator, lipoford, lipimar, liptonorm, novostat, torvazin, torvacard, tulip);
  • rosuvastatin (acorta, crestor, mertenil, rosart, rosistark, rosucard, rosulip, roxera, rustor, tevastor);
  • pitavastatin (Livazo);
  • fluvastatin (lescol).

Lovastatin and simvastatin are made from fungi. These are "prodrugs" that are converted in the liver into active metabolites. Pravastatin is a derivative of fungal metabolites, but is not metabolized in the liver, but is already active substance. Fluvastatin and atorvastatin are fully synthetic drugs.

Statins are prescribed once a day in the evening, since the peak of cholesterol formation in the body occurs at night. Gradually, their dosage may increase. The effect occurs already during the first days of admission, reaches a maximum after a month.

Statins are fairly safe. However, when using large doses, especially in combination with fibrates, liver dysfunction is possible. Some patients experience muscle pain and muscle weakness. Sometimes there are pains in the abdomen, nausea, constipation, lack of appetite. In some cases, insomnia and headaches are likely to occur.

Statins do not affect purine and carbohydrate metabolism. They can be prescribed for gout, diabetes, obesity.

Statins are included in the standards of therapy for. They are prescribed as monotherapy or in combination with other anti-atherosclerotic agents. There are ready-made combinations of lovastatin and nicotinic acid, simvastatin and ezetimibe (INEGI), pravastatin and fenofibrate, rosuvastatin and ezetimibe.

Essentiale contains essential phospholipids, B vitamins, nicotinamide, unsaturated fatty acids, sodium pantothenate. The drug improves the breakdown and excretion of "bad" cholesterol, activates beneficial features"good" cholesterol.

Lipostabil is close in composition and action to Essentiale.

Ezetimibe (Ezetrol) delays the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine, reducing its flow to the liver. It reduces the content of "bad" cholesterol in the blood. The drug is most effective in combination with statins.

Video on the topic "Cholesterol and statins: is it worth taking the medicine?"

High levels of cholesterol in the blood, which are significantly different from normal, can lead to serious problems with health and even deplorable consequences. People with high rates sterol are at risk for atherosclerosis, stroke and myocardial infarction.

Often, to normalize this indicator, experts prescribe diets. However, as it shows medical practice, proper nutrition is not enough to solve this problem, and then cholesterol-lowering drugs are used, which are selected individually for each patient.

What drugs are taken to lower cholesterol: drug groups

All drugs to lower cholesterol in the blood are divided into separate pharmacological groups. Classification of medicines is carried out according to their composition and principle of action on the body. There are such groups of funds as:

  • statins;
  • fibrates;
  • cholesterol absorption inhibitors;
  • products based on nicotinic acid;
  • polyunsaturated fatty acids;
  • bile acid sequestrants.

What drugs are taken to lower cholesterol, only a specialist can say after complete examination the patient's body and identify the causes of this condition.

New drugs - statins to lower cholesterol

Cholesterol-lowering drugs, such as statins, block an enzyme that is located in the liver and is responsible for the production process in human body sterol. This is the most popular group of medicines aimed at solving this health problem.

Statins should be taken regularly, once a day, usually at bedtime, because it is during this period that active sterol production occurs. Visible effect with such treatment, it can be noticeable after one and a half to two weeks from the first day of taking the medication according to the prescribed dosage. These are relatively new cholesterol-lowering drugs that give nice results in the treatment of this disorder. The advantage of statins is that even with their long-term use, they are not addictive and do not reduce the effect of treatment.

Cholesterol-lowering drugs, statins, are:

Simvastatin:

Zokor,

Zokor Forte,

Ovenkor,

Simvacard,

Simvastol,

Simgal;

Atorvastatin:

Atoris,

Tulip,

Liprimar,

Torvacard,

Choletar;

Pravastatin;

fluvastatin;

Lovastatin.

If you have serious liver dysfunction, you should not take statins, because in this case they can cause serious consequences. On taking medications from this group of drugs to lower the level of cholesterol in the blood, an individual reaction from the patient's body becomes possible. Most often, muscle pain and nausea occur, which usually disappear soon. With long-term use of statins, blood tests for AST and ALT become mandatory.

Fibrates to lower blood cholesterol

These cholesterol-lowering drugs affect lipid metabolism. If we compare drugs from this group with statins, then they act on sterols of different densities. Fibrates effectively affect cholesterol high density, statins – low. According to the degree of popularity in medicine, fibrates are significantly inferior to statins, they are used less often in solving this problem.

Indications for the use of fibrates are:

  • triglyceride level from 4.5 mmol / l;
  • isolated hypoalphacholesterolemia in people suffering from ischemic disease hearts;
  • decrease in the level of HDL cholesterol.

The use of fibrates to reduce the level of sterol in the blood enables patients to avoid the development of pancreatitis and reduce the risks of cardiovascular complications. They also activate the process of producing a useful sterol.

However, misunderstanding medicines to lower blood cholesterol, belonging to the number of fibrates, can cause a number of side effects. Treatment may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, painful sensations in the abdomen, diarrhea, flatulence.

Fibrates include the following medications:

  • Clofibrate;
  • Bezafibrate;
  • Fenofibrate;
  • Gemfibrozil;
  • Ciprofibrate.

Effective drugs-inhibitors for lowering cholesterol in the blood

Cholesterol absorption inhibitors (ICA) are enough effective drugs to lower blood cholesterol, but there are very few available medicines around the world. In Russia today, among the registered medicines from this group, there is only one drug - this is Ezetrol.

Such medicine is practically safe to take to lower cholesterol levels. The safety of the drug is due to the fact that it is almost not absorbed into the blood. In addition, even patients with serious liver disorders, as well as people who cannot tolerate statins, can take it.

Means from this group can be taken simultaneously with statins, unlike fibrates. This combination will only increase the effectiveness of treatment, but still, statins are significantly superior to IAH in this.

Nicotinic acid preparations for lowering cholesterol levels

Nicotinic acid preparations for lowering cholesterol contain B-complex vitamins. Nicotinic acid, or niacin, is found in food, but for a faster result, it is best taken in the form of medicines prescribed by a specialist.

Taking niacin helps lower LDL levels and HDL increase. In the treatment of nicotinic acid preparations, such adverse reactions on the part of the patient's body, like hyperemia, itching skin, headache.

The best drugs for lowering blood cholesterol based on niacin are Nicolar and Niaslan.

PUFAs to lower cholesterol levels

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are a very popular class of medications for lowering blood sterol levels. PUFAs are produced by many pharmaceutical companies under different names, but at the same time they have the same therapeutic effect.

When they are taken, the production of triglycerides decreases and the number of fatty acid oxidation receptors in the liver increases, as a result of which cholesterol decreases. Drugs from this group are quite safe, but have low efficacy, so their use is not recommended as the main treatment. They are supposed to be used in conjunction with statins or fibrates.

Bile acid sequestrants to lower blood cholesterol

Bile acid sequestrants are drugs whose action is not aimed at reducing the level of sterol, not registered in Russia. They act on bile acids, the synthesis of which comes from cholesterol. Sequestrants perform the function of a binding element - as a result of their intake, bile acids are removed from the body in a natural way.

When the level of bile acid is low, the body begins to increase its production. As a result of the activation of such natural process there is a decrease in cholesterol in the blood.

Sequestrants have a local effect on the body, they are not absorbed into the blood, but they have enough bad taste, which is their disadvantage. In addition, a positive result from treatment with this method is achieved only after a month of regular use of the drug in the dosage prescribed by the specialist. Long-term use These medications can interfere with the body's absorption of vitamins and fats.

Sequestrants include:

  • cholestide (colestipol),
  • VelHol (kolesevelam)
  • Questran (cholestyramine).

Harmless natural drugs to lower cholesterol

Herbal preparations for lowering cholesterol are absolutely safe for humans and do not cause complications, but they may be accompanied by side effects. In the treatment of this disorder, different drugs made from herbal ingredients.

Known such herbal preparations for lowering cholesterol in the blood:

Tykveol. A preparation based on pumpkin seeds has an antioxidant, choleretic and anti-inflammatory effect on the body. Mainly used for complex treatment aimed at lowering cholesterol levels. Tykveol is available in the form of tablets, it can cope with different types atherosclerosis and even with damage to the vessels of the brain.

SitoPren. It is a dietary supplement that provides the body with beta-sitosterol and polyprenols. It is used to safely lower cholesterol, including for the treatment of atherosclerosis.

Holican, or Resveratrol. The drug is a powerful antioxidant, it normalizes lipid levels and eliminates harmful cholesterol from the blood. It is used not only for treatment, but also for the prevention of sterol deposition in the vessels of the brain.

Chitosan. This medication restores vascular patency, cleansing the blood from bad cholesterol.

San Gao Dan. This pharmacological product lowers the level of triglycerides and cholesterol, protects blood vessels from atherosclerotic changes and reduces the likelihood of developing cardiovascular diseases.

Policosanol- a natural cholesterol-lowering drug based on sugar beet or sugar cane. When taking this drug in an amount of 20 g per day for 2-3 months, the level of total sterol can be reduced by 20%. Even long-term use of Policosanol cannot cause side effects.

Herbal preparations, the action of which is aimed at reducing "bad" cholesterol, are also made on the basis of such natural ingredients as wild rose, artichoke, black chokeberry, hawthorn, wild strawberry.

Even though these are harmless cholesterol-lowering drugs, they should only be taken as directed by a doctor.

Combination of diet and drugs to lower cholesterol

Dietary nutrition allows you to speed up the process of normalizing blood cholesterol levels. The diet is usually given complex therapy as an adjunct treatment.

To lower cholesterol in the blood, it is important to adjust the diet. Such therapeutic diet based on the following rules:

  1. Reduce the amount of salt consumed. A high concentration of salt in the body leads to a deterioration in the functioning of the liver and kidneys, thickening of the blood, which causes an increase in cholesterol levels. The amount of salt should be reduced to one teaspoon per day.
  2. Drink at least one and a half liters per day mineral water without gas. Water significantly improves kidney function, thus contributing to the removal of cholesterol from the body.
  3. Reduce the amount of coffee you drink. Texas scientist Barry R. Davis conducted a study of the effect of coffee on the body, according to the results of which it became clear that this product contributes to the growth of sterol levels. However, it was not possible to determine exactly which component of it causes such changes, since cholesterol also increased from decaffeinated coffee.
  4. It is necessary to enrich the daily diet with fresh vegetables, fruits and herbs.
  5. Bran is considered very useful for lowering cholesterol. For these purposes, it is necessary to use exclusively natural raw bran.
  6. You can also normalize the level of sterol in the blood with the help of garlic, eating a couple of cloves daily. You should know that only fresh garlic has such properties.

Olive oil and foods such as nuts, avocados, canola oil, and peanut butter are sources of monounsaturated fats. It is believed that this substance also has a beneficial effect on blood cholesterol levels.

A certain amount of cholesterol is needed by the body, since it is the main material for building the membrane of each cell. Vitamin D, on which mineral metabolism depends bone tissue, and many of the most important hormones in the body are synthesized from. Lipids are also essential for the formation nerve fibers, which means that our memory, intellect and thinking depend on them.

Why is high cholesterol dangerous?

Often a person receives more fat from food than is necessary. An excess of lipids is directly related to the development of vascular atherosclerosis, the manifestations of which are:

  • Hypertonic disease
  • Ischemic heart disease and angina pectoris - "pain in"
  • Intermittent chromate - sharp pains in the calves of the legs that occur when walking

As a result, it can lead to the following formidable complications:

  • Ischemic stroke of the brain and transient disorders of cerebral circulation
  • An aortic aneurysm is an enlargement of the thoracic or abdominal aorta (the large vessel organism), which can lead to its rupture and fatal bleeding

Insufficiently mobile lifestyle, regular stress and smoking, hereditary predisposition - these factors lead to damage to the heart and blood vessels, even in young age. Not all of them are easy to influence, but checking and lowering cholesterol levels is a fairly simple task.

When is it necessary to donate blood for cholesterol? What is a normal cholesterol level?

Regular cholesterol checks are recommended for all men over 40 and women over 50. More early age– if there are risk factors, especially smoking, or atherosclerotic lesions of cardio-vascular system from close relatives.

The main analysis for checking cholesterol is a lipid profile. It will not only show the level of total cholesterol, but will also make it possible to determine the ratio of low (LDL) and high (HDL) density lipoproteins. "Good" is cholesterol associated with high-density lipoproteins (transport proteins), "bad" - associated with low-density lipoproteins and as part of triglycerides. It depends on some biochemical features of cholesterol transport.

Normal lipid profiles look like this:

  • total cholesterol<5,2 ммоль/л
  • Triglycerides<2,3 ммоль/л
  • LDL<3 ммоль/л и <1,8 ммоль/л при сопутствующем сахарном диабете
  • HDL >1.5 mmol/l
  • Atherogenic coefficient<4

The limits of the norm may vary slightly in different laboratories, depending on the methods and reagents used.

Can you lower cholesterol without medication?

The first mandatory step in treatment is a change in dietary habits and lifestyle. A decrease in the diet of animal fats containing saturated fatty acids and simple carbohydrates, which, when consumed in excess, also turn into cholesterol, will help normalize the lipid profile. "Useful" cholesterol in the form of unsaturated fatty acids is found in fish and vegetable oils, and cereal products are rich in complex carbohydrates. Fresh fruits and containing a large amount of antioxidants will additionally protect against atherosclerosis.

It is important to understand that only the joint work of the doctor and the patient leads to the desired results.

When is it necessary to lower cholesterol with the use of drugs?

If cholesterol levels remain high despite diet and exercise, cholesterol-lowering medications come to the rescue. Also, their reception is absolutely indicated for everyone who already has diseases of the cardiovascular system associated with atherosclerosis.

Groups of cholesterol-lowering drugs, their comparative characteristics

Cholesterol-lowering drugs are called “lipid-lowering drugs” in the medical literature, that is, they reduce the level of fats - lipids.
There are the following types of lipid-lowering drugs:

  • Statins
  • Bile acid sequestrants
  • A nicotinic acid
  • Fibrates
  • Monoclonal antibodies to IgG2

Statins

Due to the high efficiency, proven in many large international studies, and affordable prices (from 200 rubles), they are the drug of choice for lowering cholesterol.

Statins inhibit the most important enzyme at the stage of cholesterol synthesis, thereby reducing its production by the liver, promote the capture of “harmful” low-density lipoproteins from the bloodstream and their destruction by liver cells.

They are active even in the treatment of familial hereditary hypercholesterolemias, which usually do not respond well to drugs. They are a means of preventing strokes and heart attacks in the presence of atherosclerotic heart disease and.

The effect of taking the drugs develops after about two weeks, reaching a maximum severity after one month and maintaining it throughout the treatment. On average, statins lead to a 15-20% reduction in cholesterol levels.

The dangers of statins are greatly exaggerated. Side effects are rare - about 2%. The most common of these are gastrointestinal discomfort, pain and bloating in the abdomen, and constipation.

Regular monitoring of liver enzymes helps prevent liver damage associated with statins. Statins should be avoided in the presence of known chronic liver disease.

Individual intolerance is possible, all allergy sufferers should be careful when taking each new drug. Reception is completely contraindicated during pregnancy and.

Statins are easy to use: dosage forms are available, which can be adjusted according to need and taken one tablet once a day.

List of the main representatives of statins:

  • Atorvastatin
  • Rosuvastatin
  • Simvastatin
  • Lovastatin
  • Pitavastatin
  • Pravastatin
  • fluvastatin
  • Cerivastatin

All these are the names of active substances, for each of which there are about a dozen trade names. Depending on the manufacturer, drugs may differ in price. The pharmacy should name the active substance that was prescribed by the attending physician. After that, the brand name of the drug can be chosen independently.

Long-term use of statins, as prescribed by your doctor, can prevent serious complications, and thus prolong an active, healthy life.

Fibrates

Fibrates affect the deep links of lipid metabolism, acting at the level of the cell nucleus and genes. In the future, activation of specific enzymes that break down lipids occurs.

Fibrates significantly lower triglyceride levels, which is why they are often prescribed to patients with hereditary lipid metabolism disorders. Total cholesterol is reduced by 15%, HDL is increased by 20%.

Main drugs:

  • Fenofibrate
  • Gemfibrozil
  • Bezafibrate
  • Ciprofibrate

Side effects of fibrates include indigestion (5%) and (less commonly) muscle pain, elevated liver enzymes, and gallstone formation.

The price of fibrates is comparable to the cost of statins. However, in terms of reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications, they are less effective than statins.

A nicotinic acid

Nicotinic acid is a vitamin PP that is involved in many important processes in the body and is not related to cigarette nicotine in any way.
It has a complex effect on fat metabolism, normalizes the ratio of lipids. Reduces the breakdown of lipids in adipose tissue, preventing them from entering the bloodstream. Increases the level of "good" cholesterol. Reduces the rate of creation of cholesterol and LDL.

In addition, nicotinic acid normalizes microcirculation and dilates blood vessels, including blood vessels.

Possible redness of the skin, burning sensation and heat. Dizziness and pressure drop - with the rapid introduction of the drug intravenously. Other side effects appear only with uncontrolled intake of large doses. The required dosage and duration should be selected by a specialist. Limit intake during pregnancy and lactation. The drug is most often used together with statins.

Cholesterol binding inhibitors

The representative of this group is Orlistat.

The drug not only reduces the overall, but also allows you to lose a couple of kilograms of excess weight, as they prevent the absorption of fats in the intestine by inhibiting lipase enzymes.

Orlistat reduces central adiposity (waist circumference), which is much more important than overall weight loss. It is abdominal fat deposits that contribute to lipid metabolism disorders and insulin resistance.

However, it should be remembered that, like all medicines, Orlistat should be taken under the supervision of a physician due to the possibility of side effects.

Regular checks of liver and kidney function are required due to the risk of developing liver and kidney failure and cholestasis. The incidence of complications is low, but their occurrence requires an immediate response. Use during pregnancy is contraindicated.

It is used if the increase in cholesterol is due to overweight. Often used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes in addition to metformin. The price of orlistat ranges from 500 to 2000 per pack.

Bile acid sequestrants

Cholesterol can circulate in the body for a long time. In the liver, it is converted into bile acids, which enter the intestinal lumen with bile, and then are absorbed back. So the body tries to protect itself from the loss of cholesterol.

Preparations of this group bind bile acids, preventing their reabsorption, and contribute to the removal of excess.
On average, they reduce cholesterol and LDL by 20%.

Bile acid sequestrants act exclusively locally, and therefore do not have systemic undesirable effects. Side effects from the digestive system can be avoided if you increase the dosage slowly to the required.

In addition, these drugs interfere with the absorption of other drugs, so they must be taken 4 hours in advance or 1 hour after taking other drugs.

The first sequestrant drugs were cholestyramine and colestipol.

At the moment, a new representative has appeared - colesevelam, which is better tolerated and interacts less with other drugs. Kolesevelam can be used in combination with statins.

  • Monoclonal antibodies of the IgG2 class (not registered in Russia)
  • Evolocumab
  • Alirocumab

They represent the newest generation of drugs. They bind to special protease enzymes that normally destroy LDL receptors on the surface of liver cells. As a result of the inhibition of enzymatic activity, the number of receptors increases and the content of LDL decreases in.

The effectiveness of drugs can only be compared with their astronomical cost. The maximum reduction in LDL when taking these drugs reaches 70%.

Currently, it is not possible to purchase these drugs in Russia, even with the necessary amount of money, but Evolocumab is available as part of clinical trials. If your attending physician offers such an opportunity, you should agree.

While watching the video, you will learn about cholesterol.

The drug has already been tested and registered in the US and Europe, so there are practically no risks of participation in such studies.

Elevated cholesterol levels increase the risk of developing heart and vascular disease. Cholesterol pills help to effectively reduce the dangerous level of the substance, prevent the occurrence of complications and improve the quality of life of patients who have experienced a heart attack, stroke, coronary artery disease.

Statins for cholesterol: when prescribed, side effects

HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, in other words statins, are the main group of drugs prescribed for high cholesterol, which have no analogues. If the amount of harmful LDL significantly exceeds the norm and dietary adjustment does not help to correct the situation, the patient is prescribed long-term statin therapy.

The principle of their action is to suppress the action of the enzyme responsible for the production of cholesterol in the liver, and slow the progression of atherosclerosis. Regular intake of tablets helps to prolong life for people suffering from chronic atherosclerosis, circulatory disorders, who have suffered or have chronic cardiovascular pathologies.

When and who should take statins

Cholesterol statins are prescribed for people at high risk of heart attack and stroke, when high cholesterol levels are stable and not falling at 300-330 mg/dL or 8-11 mmol/L, and when at least one of the following conditions is met:

  • suffered a heart attack, stroke or ischemic attack;
  • coronary artery bypass surgery;
  • atherosclerotic lesions of the coronary arteries;
  • elevated levels of c-reactive protein and calcium deposition in the arteries.

Treatment with cholesterol pills is not prescribed for practically healthy people with a slight increase in LDL levels, since the negative effect on the body will outweigh the benefits. It is also not recommended to start treatment with statins in the following cases:

  • slight and unstable increase in cholesterol;
  • absence of atherosclerosis;
  • had no previous heart attacks or strokes;
  • there is no calcium deposition in the arteries or it is insignificant;
  • c-reactive protein is less than 1 mg/dl.

It should be borne in mind that statin treatment can continue throughout life. When they are canceled, the cholesterol level will return to its previous levels.

The use of statins should be carried out only on the recommendation of a doctor due to the many contraindications and side effects. When prescribing tablets, the following factors are taken into account:

  • age and gender of the patient;
  • previous or existing diseases of the cardiovascular and hematopoietic systems, including diabetes mellitus.

Elderly patients should take statins with extreme caution if they are using other medicines intended to treat hypertension, gout, or diabetes mellitus. For this category of patients, control blood tests and liver tests are performed 2 times more often.

Side effects of statins

Statins, reviews of which in most cases are positive, have a complex effect. In addition to the prevention of atherosclerosis, they are prescribed after heart attacks and strokes.

Long-term use of statins helps:

  • slow down the progression of atherosclerosis;
  • reduce the likelihood of developing a heart attack, stroke and coronary heart disease (CHD);
  • normalize LDL levels and increase HDL;
  • restore the properties of blood vessels and relieve inflammation in them;
  • improve the quality of life of the patient after suffering heart attacks and strokes.

But, it is important to understand that this group of drugs acts at the biochemical level, inhibiting the work of the most important enzyme responsible for the synthesis of cholesterol. The main danger of statins is the possible destruction of liver cells.

It is not difficult to track the negative effects of drugs. All patients taking statins are under constant medical supervision and periodically (every 1-2 months) pass liver tests and bilirubin analysis. With poor performance, treatment is canceled, and statins are replaced with tablets with a more gentle effect.

Cholesterol-lowering drugs have multiple contraindications and side effects. In addition to the negative impact on the liver, they can cause disturbances in the work of other systems and organs:

  • Muscular-ligamentous apparatus. Patients begin severe and long-lasting pain in the muscles and joints. Unpleasant sensations are caused by inflammation and atrophy of muscle tissue. The development of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis is possible (the most severe complication of myopathy, the death of an abundant area of ​​\u200b\u200bmuscles, is rare: 1 case per 40 thousand).
  • Gastrointestinal tract. Cholesterol-lowering pills adversely affect the digestion process. However, this does not pose any danger to the health and life of the patient. Dyspeptic phenomena signal individual intolerance to the components of the remedy. In this case, it is canceled or the dosage is reduced.
  • Nervous system. Violation of memory and thinking, loss of memories for a recent period of time. Amnesia can last for minutes or hours. Adverse reactions are very similar to Alzheimer's syndrome. There may also be facial paralysis, a disorder of sensitivity in the muscles, and a change in taste.

It should be borne in mind that not all negative reactions may occur in a particular patient. As practice shows, the incidence of adverse effects of therapy does not exceed 3% (75 people out of 2500 subjects).

Diabetes and statins

Statins have another significant disadvantage - they increase blood sugar by 1-2 mmol / l. This increases the risk of type II diabetes by 10%. And in those patients who already have diabetes, taking statins worsens control and increases the risk of its rapid progression.

But, it should be understood that the benefits of taking statins can be much greater than the adverse effects they have on the body. Medicines effectively reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes, prolong life expectancy, which is much more important than a moderate increase in blood sugar.

With diabetes, it is very important that the treatment is comprehensive. Pills should be combined with a low-carb diet, increased physical activity and insulin dosage.

Classification of statins

The group of statins includes an extensive number of drugs. In medicine, they are divided according to two parameters: by generation (the period of release to the pharmaceutical market) and by origin.

By generation:

  • I generation: Simvastatin, Pravastatin, Lovastatin. The level of high density lipoproteins is increased in a very small amount. They have a beneficial effect on the state of blood vessels, improve blood composition, and have antioxidant properties. They have the weakest effect of all drugs. Tablets are prescribed to patients with primary hypercholesterolemia who have a high risk of developing coronary atherosclerosis.
  • II generation: Fluvastatin. Effectively reduces the production of cholesterol in the cells involved in its synthesis, enhances the uptake and removal of LDL. Of all the drugs that lower cholesterol, it has the most gentle effect on the body. Assign for violations of lipid metabolism to prevent complications: coronary atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, heart attack and stroke after surgery.
  • III generation: Atorvastatin. Effective tablets that are prescribed to patients with complex forms of hypercholesterolemia, with a mixed type of disease, hereditary predisposition. Indicated for people suffering from cardiovascular diseases, with an increased risk of developing coronary artery disease.
  • IV generation: Rosuvastatin, Pitavastatin. The best modern drugs with the most effective action and a minimum of side effects. They reduce LDL and increase HDL, cleanse blood vessels, prevent cholesterol plaques from settling on the vascular walls. Used to treat and prevent atherosclerosis and its consequences. Unlike drugs of previous generations, Rosuvastatin not only fights harmful lipoproteins, but also relieves vascular inflammation, which, according to scientists, is also the cause of atherosclerosis. Pitavastatin is an ideal drug for diabetic patients. This is the only drug from the statin group that does not affect glucose metabolism and, accordingly, does not increase its level.

If there are chronic liver diseases, it is recommended to use only modern medicines in the most minimal doses. provide protection for liver cells and cause less harm to the body. But they are strictly forbidden to combine with alcohol and any kind of antibiotics.

By origin, all statins are divided into:

  • Natural: Lovastatin. Medicines, the main active ingredient of which is a culture isolated from penicillin fungi.
  • Semi-synthetic: Simvastatin, Pravastatin. They are partially modified derivatives of mevalonic acid.
  • Synthetic: Fluvastatin, Rosuvastatin, Atorvastatin, Pitavastatin. Cholesterol-lowering pills with qualitatively new properties.

No need to think that natural cholesterol pills are safer because of their composition. This opinion is wrong. They also have multiple side effects just like their synthetic counterparts. Moreover, experts say that there are no absolutely safe drugs that do not cause negative reactions.

Generations of statins, average price in pharmacies

What drugs are statins and how effective they are in lowering cholesterol can be found in the table.

Trade name of the drug, the effectiveness of lowering cholesterolNames of drugs and concentration of the base substanceWhere are they producedAverage cost, rub.
First generation statins
Simvastatin (38%)Vasilip (10, 20, 40mg)In Slovenia450
Simgal (10, 20 or 40)In Israel and the Czech Republic460
Simvacard (10, 20, 40)in the Czech Republic330
Simlo (10, 20, 40)In India330
Simvastatin (10, 20.40)In Russia, Serbia150
Pravastatin (38%)Lipostat (10, 20)In Russia, Italy, USA170
Lovastatin (25%)Choletar (20)In Slovenia320
Cardiostatin (20, 40)in Russia330
Second generation statins
Fluvastatin (29%)Lescol Forte (80)In Switzerland, Spain2300
Third generation statins
Atorvastatin (47%)Liptonorm (20)In India, RF350
Liprimar (10, 20, 40, 80)Germany, USA, Ireland950
Thorvacard (10, 40)in the Czech Republic850
fourth generation statins
Rosuvastatin (55%)Crestor (5, 10, 20, 40)In Russia, England, Germany1370
Rosucard (10, 20, 40)in the Czech Republic1400
Rosulip (10, 20)In Hungary750
Tevastor (5, 10, 20)In Israel560
Pitavastatin (55%)Livazo (1, 2, 4 mg)in Italy2350

Fibrates - derivatives of fibric acid

Fibrates are the second most effective drug to help manage high cholesterol. Most often they are used in conjunction with statins. In some cases, they are prescribed as independent means.

The mechanism of action of the tablets is to increase the activity of lipoprotein plase, which breaks down particles of low and very low density. During treatment, lipid metabolism is accelerated, the level of good cholesterol rises, the metabolism of carbohydrates in the liver normalizes, and the risk of atherosclerotic plaques and heart pathologies is reduced.

Cholesterol drugs from the fibrate group are well tolerated by patients. Negative side effects occur in rare cases (approximately 7-10%).

The most effective means are:

  • Clofibrate. It has a pronounced hypolipidemic activity, enhances metabolic processes in the liver, reduces blood viscosity and thrombosis. It is not prescribed for the prevention of hereditary or acquired hypercholesterolemia.
  • Gemfibrozil. A derivative of Clofibrate with less toxicity and side effects. It has pronounced hypolipidemic properties. Reduces LDL, VLDL and triglycerides, increases HDL, accelerates the excretion of free fatty acids from the liver.
  • Bezafibrate. Reduces cholesterol and glucose, reduces the risk of thrombosis. It has pronounced anti-atherosclerotic properties.
  • Fenofibrate. The most modern and effective medicine for cholesterol from the fibrate group. It is considered a universal remedy in the fight against lipid metabolism disorders and elevated insulin concentrations. In addition to lipid-lowering properties, it has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and tonic effects.

List of drugs

Bile acid sequestrants

A group of lipid-lowering drugs that suppress cholesterol production. They are used as adjuvants in complex therapy.

Bile acids are formed during exchange reactions between cholesterol and fats. Sequestrants bind these acids in the small intestine and remove them naturally from the body. As a result, their entry into the liver is significantly reduced. The body begins to synthesize these acids, spending more LDL, which reduces their total amount in the blood.

Sequestrants that bind bile acids are conventionally divided into three groups:

  • Colestyramine (Cholestyramine). When entering the small intestine, it forms non-absorbable complexes of bile acids. Accelerates their excretion and reduces the absorption of cholesterol by the intestinal walls.
  • Colestipol. High molecular weight copolymer. Reduces the absorption of exogenous cholesterol. Less effective than Colestyramine, therefore, it is most often prescribed in complex therapy for patients with primary hypercholesterolemia.
  • Kolesevelam. Pills from cholesterol of the new generation. They are more effective, practically do not cause side reactions. Combines well with other drugs. Can be taken during pregnancy.

In addition to reducing the concentration of bad cholesterol, drugs reduce the risk of developing coronary artery disease, coronary complications, heart attack. They are not absorbed into the systemic circulation, therefore they cause a minimum of side effects. In most cases, these are dyspeptic disorders: flatulence, loss of appetite, stool disorder.

Derivatives of nicotinic acid

Nicotinic acid (Niacin, vitamin PP, B 3) is a drug involved in lipid metabolism, enzyme synthesis, redox reactions.

With high cholesterol, Niacin is prescribed in conjunction with other drugs to improve blood properties, expand the vascular lumen and normalize blood circulation. Nicotinic acid also suppresses inflammatory reactions, dilates and strengthens blood vessels, and has a complex effect on the body.

The therapy is carried out under the strict supervision of a doctor. Adverse reactions are possible - allergies, a feeling of intense heat, malfunctions of the digestive apparatus, an increase in glucose levels (dangerous for patients with diabetes mellitus).

Cholesterol absorption inhibitors

Medicines in this category do not increase the excretion of bile acids and do not inhibit the production of cholesterol by the liver. Their action is aimed at reducing the flow of acids from the small intestine to the liver. Due to this, the reserves of the substance are reduced, and its removal from the blood is enhanced.

The most effective drugs in this category:

  • Ezetimib (analogues: Ezetrol, Lipobon). Tablets of a new class. Reduce absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine. Do not reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, do not affect the overall life expectancy of the patient. Most effective when combined with statins. Side effects are possible - allergies, diarrhea, deterioration of blood properties.
  • Guarem (guar gum). It has hypocholesterolemic and hypoglycemic effects. Reduces the absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine, while enhancing the processes of metabolism in the liver. With complex therapy, it reduces the level of LDL and triglycerides by 10-15%.

Preparations for lowering cholesterol in the blood are prescribed for the primary and hereditary form of hypercholesterolemia, with lipid metabolism disorders against the background of diabetes mellitus.

Drugs that improve the elasticity of the vascular wall

They are used to improve the quality and effectiveness of the main treatment and prevention of complications of atherosclerosis. Auxiliary therapy includes drugs that improve the properties of blood, the condition of the walls of blood vessels, cerebral blood supply:

  • Vinpocetine. Eliminates spasm of the muscular membrane of blood vessels, improves cerebral blood flow, normalizes metabolic processes and blood pressure. It has a beneficial effect on the central nervous system.
  • Dihydroquercetin. Tablets to improve the functioning of the heart and the condition of blood vessels. Normalize lipid metabolism, reduce glucose levels, slow down the progression of atherosclerosis.
  • Acetylsalicylic acid. Assign to thin the blood and reduce the risk of blood clots.
  • dietary supplements for cholesterol. The feasibility of taking them with a stable increase in LDL is very doubtful. Unlike cholesterol-lowering drugs, food supplements are only tested for safety. There are currently no data on their therapeutic efficacy. But they can be used with a slight deviation in the level of LDL from the norm, along with diet therapy and lifestyle adjustments.

All tablets should be taken only as directed by a doctor. In addition to taking medication, people with high cholesterol levels should definitely change their lifestyle and diet. Only in this case, therapy will be as effective and efficient as possible.

Literature

  1. George T. Krucik, MD, MBA. Alternatives to Statins for Lowering Cholesterol, 2016
  2. Susan J. Bliss, RPh, MBA. Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs, 2016
  3. Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD. Cholesterol Lowering Medications, 2017
  4. A. A. SMIRNOV Comparative analysis of the clinical efficacy of modern statins

Last update: December 6, 2018