Drugs and Medication for Lowering your Cholesterol

Along with crackers rich in fiber and fresh fruit, there are also prescription medications that reduce or prevent high cholesterol. Cholesterol must be kept low to reduce the risk of heart disease. Here is a guide to the 4 most commonly prescribed cholesterol lowering drugs. With this information regarding effectiveness, cost, and side effects, those with high cholesterol will be able to properly reduce or prevent coronary artery disease. These 4 commonly prescribed cholesterol lowering drugs fall under the classification of Statin.

Statin. This type of medication blocks the production of cholesterol in the liver. Statins lower LDL and triglycerides, while mildly raising HDL. Side effects might include intestinal problems, liver damage, and possible muscle tenderness. Examples include Crestor, Lipitor, Lescol, Mevacor.

Crestor, also known as Rosuvastatin Calcium, is available for approximately $139.00. This is for 90.00 5 mg pills. This medication will help prevent strokes and heart attacks, as well as reducing cholesterol and triglycerides.

Lipitor, also known as Atorvastatin, reduces "bad" cholesterol and fats while raising "good" cholesterol in the blood. Side effects include diarrhea or stomach/abdominal pain. It can be stored at room temperature between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. This medication is available for $69.99. This is for 30.00 10 mg pills.

Lescol, also known as Fluvastatin, is $114.99. This is for 100.00 20 mg pills. Fluvastatin is an enzyme blocker. Side effects include stomach upsets. This drug may also infrequently cause muscle problems and changes in the amount of urine. This drug is prescribed after non-drug treatments have not completely succeeded at lowering cholesterol.

Mevacor, also known as Lovastatin, is available for $79.99. This is for 30.00 20 mg pills. This medication may cause constipation or abdominal/stomach pain. Rare but serious side effects include yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, and/or persistent nausea/vomiting. Very serious allergic reactions are rare but may occur. These allergic reactions include rashes, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, and/or trouble breathing.

For additional information regarding cholesterol lowering medicine, please visit http://www.webmd.com/ . Please be sure to read the details regarding each medication and its unique attributes and side effects. Also take care to ask a physician or pediatrician about any changes that may have been made to these medications.

Sources:

1. http://www.webmd.com/ .

2. http://www.northwestpharmacy.com/ProductSearch.aspx?s=mevacor .