Medications for Cholesterol and the Valuable Indianapolis CPR Classes

It is important to keep cholesterol in check as high cholesterol levels is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease. Lifestyle changes, like a better diet and more exercise, may prevent or treat unhealthy cholesterol levels. Medication may also be needed as well. It is advisable to go for regular health checkups in order to assess your risk of heart disease. Moreover, your doctor will most likely develop a treatment plan that’s right for you. When it comes to medication, be sure to take all medicines as prescribed by your doctor.

Heart disease is the leading cause of occurrence of cardiac emergencies in people. The most life-threatening of all cardiac emergencies include cardiac arrest and heart attack. A victim would require immediate treatment for survival with the most appropriate treatment being proper application of the life-saving CPR procedures. The techniques comprise chest compressions and rescue breaths. Always select a certified training center for acquiring training such as the AHA certified CPR Indianapolis. Certified instructors conduct the classes through a series of audio and video lectures and hands-on practice. 

There are several medications recommended and used to lower blood cholesterol levels with Statins being the most recommended one for patients. People belonging to any of the below-mentioned category should discuss with their doctor about the risks and benefits of statin therapy:

1.      Adults with a history of known cardiovascular disease, including stroke, caused by atherosclerosis.

2.      Individuals with LDL-C level of greater than 190mg/dL.

3.      Adults 40-75 years, with diabetes.

4.      Adults 40–75 years, with LDL-C level of 70-189 mg/dL and a 5%to 19.9% 10-year risk of developing cardiovascular disease from atherosclerosis, with risk enhancing factors.

5.      Adults 40–75 years, with LDL-C level of 70-189 mg/dL and a 20% or greater 10-year risk of developing cardiovascular disease from atherosclerosis.

Statins- This class of drugs, also known as HMG CoA reductase inhibitors, works in the liver to prevent cholesterol from forming thus reducing the amount of cholesterol circulating in the blood. Some of the statins available include Atorvastatin, Fluvastatin, Lovastatin, Pravastatin, Rosuvastatin, Simvastatin.

PCSK9 inhibitors- They bind to and inactivate a protein in liver in order to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol.

Resins- This class of LDL-lowering drugs, also known as bile acid sequestrants or bile acid-binding drugs, works in the intestines by promoting increased disposal of cholesterol. Names of available resins include Cholestyramine, Colestipol, Colesevelam Hcl. 

Lipid-lowering Therapies:

Niacin- Niacin works in the liver by affecting the production of blood fats with some of the side-effects being flushing, itching and stomach upset. It can also cause toxicity and can also raise blood sugar level. It comes in prescription form and as a dietary supplement.

Fibrates- These drugs aren’t very effective in lowering LDL cholesterol although they are the best in lowering triglycerides and in some cases increasing HDL levels. Names of available fibrates include Gemfibrozil, Fenofibrate, Clofibrate.

Omega-3 Fatty Acid Ethyl Esters- As the name suggests, these medications are derived from fish oils that are chemically changed and purified and are used in tandem with dietary changes, to help people with very high triglyceride levels (over 500 mg/dL) lower their levels. They can cause serious side-effects. Names include Lovaza, Vascepa.

Do consult your doctor prior to taking any sort of medication. Eat well and incorporate some form of physical exercise in your daily routine which can play a huge role in keeping your cholesterol levels in check.

For more information or to register for a course, get in touch with CPR Indianapolis.