- Statins lower LDL and triglycerides, and side effects include nausea, stomach pain, cramps, diarrhea, constipation and muscle soreness. Interactions with grapefruit and grapefruit juice are possible.
- Bile binding resins decrease LDL and may cause side effects including bloating, gas, and constipation, and may increase triglycerides.
- Cholesterol absorption inhibitors lower LDL and triglycerides, and side effects include stomach pain, tiredness and muscle aches.
- Fibrates decrease triglycerides and increase HDL, but may cause side effects such as nausea, stomach cramps and gallstones.
- Prescription niacin can lower LDL and triglycerides and increase HDL, but may cause side effects including flushing of the face and neck, dizziness, nausea, high blood sugar and stomach ulcers.
- Combinations of statins and cholesterol absorption inhibitors, such as the brand-name drug Vytorin, may cause stomach pains, gas, constipation, stomach cramps, and muscle pain and weakness.
- Cholesterol medications may cause damage to the liver, including liver failure. Regular liver function tests should be done to monitor the health of the liver.
previous post