Here is a table of commonly used antihyperlipidemic medications, along with their mechanism of action and commonly used doses:
Drug | Mechanism of Action | Commonly Used Doses |
---|---|---|
Statins | Statins work by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which is responsible for the production of cholesterol in the liver. By inhibiting this enzyme, statins reduce the production of cholesterol and lower blood cholesterol levels. | The usual starting dose for statins is 10-20 mg/day, but the appropriate dose will depend on the specific medication and the individual patient’s needs. |
Bile acid sequestrants | These drugs work by binding to bile acids in the intestine, which reduces the amount of cholesterol that is absorbed into the body. This leads to a decrease in blood cholesterol levels. | The usual starting dose for bile acid sequestrants is 1-4 grams/day, but the appropriate dose will depend on the specific medication and the individual patient’s needs. |
Fibrates | These drugs work by activating a receptor called peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-alpha), which regulates the production of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in the liver. By activating this receptor, fibrates decrease the production of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and increase the production of HDL cholesterol, leading to a decrease in overall blood cholesterol levels. | The usual starting dose for fibrates is 500-1,000 mg/day, but the appropriate dose will depend on the specific medication and the individual patient’s needs. |
Ezetimibe | This drug works by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine, leading to a decrease in blood cholesterol levels. | The usual starting dose for ezetimibe is 10 mg/day, but the appropriate dose will depend on the individual patient’s needs. |
It’s important to note that the best treatment for hyperlipidemia will depend on the individual patient’s needs and medical history. It’s important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.