Antilipemic agent

Antilipemic agents are a class of drugs used to help lower lipid levels in the blood. They are often prescribed to patients with high levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, or other lipids, which can contribute to cardiovascular disease.

Mechanism of Action

Antilipemic agents work in various ways to reduce lipid levels. Some, like statins, inhibit the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a crucial role in the production of cholesterol in the liver. Others, such as fibrates, increase the breakdown of lipoprotein particles and decrease the production of certain types of lipids in the liver.

Types of Antilipemic Agents

There are several types of antilipemic agents, including:

• Statins: These are the most commonly prescribed antilipemic agents. They are particularly effective at lowering LDL cholesterol, the type of cholesterol often referred to as "bad cholesterol."

• Fibrates: These are used primarily to treat high triglyceride levels, but they can also help increase HDL cholesterol, the "good cholesterol."

• Niacin: This is a type of B vitamin that can help lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and raise HDL cholesterol.

• Bile acid sequestrants: These drugs work by binding to bile acids in the intestines, which are then excreted in the stool. This forces the liver to use more cholesterol to make more bile acids, which in turn lowers the level of cholesterol in the blood.

Side Effects

Like all drugs, antilipemic agents can have side effects. These can include muscle pain, liver damage, increased blood sugar levels, and digestive problems. It's important for patients to discuss these potential side effects with their healthcare provider before starting treatment.

See Also

• Hyperlipidemia
• Cardiovascular disease
• Pharmacology