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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Not treat with statins, even for those people with elevated cholesterols, unless the patients has a very high risk of future troubles. 5,5aI have been prescribing pravastatin (Pravachol) for years because of evidence that it is the most effective drug for lowering the risk of heart attacks and death. (6) The action of Pravachol is different from other statins, in that it does not enter the cells of the body easily and therefore avoids some of the effects within the cells that may cause an increase in risk of atherosclerosis and heart attacks.3) PCSK9 Inhibitors (alirocumab and evolocumab) are the newest rage in the “war against cholesterol.” 5b These are delivered by injections once every two weeks and cost about $12,000 annually. PCSK9 inhibitor drugs are now approved by the FDA to treat familial hypercholesterolemia. They cause a serious reduction in cholesterol and a significant reduction in heart attack, but their benefits for long-term survival are undetermined to date. 4) Nexletol (bempedoic acid): The effect of NEXLETOL and NEXLIZET on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality has not been determined. This drug inhibits making cholesterol in your liver. The typical dose is 180 mg once per day. The cost is about $400/month for 30 pills. It takes about 8 to 12 weeks for your cholesterol levels to improve.In Summary:Everyone should be on a low-fat, no-cholesterol, diet based on unrefined starches with the addition of vegetables and fruits. People with elevated triglycerides should further limit simple sugars, even fruit and juices, because they raise triglyceride levels and may cause rises in total cholesterol levels. 7-9 All people with elevated cholesterol and/or triglyceride levels should consider the “natural” cholesterol-lowering agents. People with a higher risk of complications of atherosclerosis (heart attacks, strokes, death) should consider prescription medications. I still prefer statins alone, rather than PCSK9 Inhibitors and Nexletol, because of the safety, costs, and my familiarity with their use. Once your cholesterol level is stable (and hopefully ideal) then you should check your blood levels every six to 12 months.References:1) Roberts W. Atherosclerotic risk factorsﾐare there ten or is there only one. Am J
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