Cholesterol is a sterol and a lipid found in the cell membranes, and transported in the blood plasma of all animals. Cholesterol is not dietary in origin and is present in higher concentrations in such tissues those produces more or have more densely packed membranes.
Effects of Cholesterol
Cholesterol is best known for its relation with cardiovascular diseases. With elevated concentrations of oxidized low-density lipoproteins (LDL) particles, cholesterol promotes atheroma formation in the walls of arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis, which is the principal cause of coronary heart disease and other forms of cardiovascular disease.
Drugs
Medical practitioners may suggest a single or a combination of drugs and effectiveness may vary.
Statins, a drug reduces LDL and triglycerides and moderately increases HDL. However, intake of Statins is associated with upset stomach, formation of gas, constipation, cramps, and increased blood levels in some cases.
Bile acid-binding resins reduce LDL and but may lead to constipation, bloating, nausea and gas.
Cholesterol absorption inhibitors reduce LDL apart from decreasing triglycerides and increasing HDL. However, such inhibitors are associated with stomach pain and fatigue.
Fibrates reduce triglycerides and increase HDL substantially. However, side effects include upset stomach, gas, constipation, stomach pain, fatigue, weakness and increased blood levels.
Cholesterol drugs are likely to cause abnormalities in liver function. Hence, patients undergoing cholesterol treatment are advised to take periodic liver function tests.
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