Category: Cholesterol management

Between 5% and 20% of people in observational studies report experiencing muscle pain when taking statin medications like atorvastatin. While the benefits of statins in preventing heart attacks and strokes are well-established, this muscle-related side effect is the most common reason people stop their medication.

While statins are widely prescribed, a 2022 meta-analysis found the overall prevalence of statin intolerance is 9.1% [1.10.1]. For these individuals and others seeking options, knowing what can be done instead of statins is crucial for managing cholesterol and heart health.

Colesevelam is a bile acid sequestrant prescribed to lower LDL cholesterol and improve glycemic control in type 2 diabetes [1.10.2]. However, specific medical conditions make its use unsafe. Understanding who should not take colesevelam is critical for patient safety.

Lovastatin is a prescription-only medication in the United States used to manage high cholesterol [1.2.1, 1.2.4]. If you're wondering, 'Can I buy lovastatin over the counter?', the answer is no, as its use requires monitoring by a healthcare professional [1.2.6].

Clinical data from trials like the ORION program show inclisiran has a favorable safety profile, with the most common adverse effect being mild injection site reactions. The question of whether is inclisiran safer than statins depends on a comparison of their different side effect profiles and mechanisms of action.

Certain essential prescription drugs can unexpectedly cause a spike in cholesterol levels [1.2.3]. This article answers the question, 'What medications can raise your cholesterol?' and explores how to work with your doctor to manage this potential side effect for your long-term health.

**Disclaimer:** This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. For many individuals, statin therapy is a lifelong commitment to control cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular events, as discontinuing the medication often causes cholesterol levels to rise again. This longevity prompts a critical question for patients and healthcare providers alike: **How many years can you take statins safely?** Decades of extensive research confirm that for most people, the profound cardiovascular benefits of long-term statin use far outweigh the risks.

Over 95% of bile acids are normally reabsorbed in the intestines, but certain medications disrupt this process. Colestipol is one such medication, and **what is another name for colestipol** is Colestid, its brand name.

In clinical trials, diarrhea was one of the reasons for treatment discontinuation with Nexletol, affecting 0.4% of patients compared to 0.1% on placebo [1.2.1]. For those asking, **can Nexletol cause diarrhea?**, the data shows it is a recognized, though not highly common, side effect.

High cholesterol affects millions of people in the U.S. and is a major risk factor for heart disease [1.2.8]. For those who need medication, a common question is, **What does Livalo treat?** Livalo is a prescription statin medication designed to lower 'bad' cholesterol as part of a comprehensive treatment plan [1.2.1].