The Different Types Of Cholesterol Medication Available

If you watch television at all, you've no doubt seen countless commercials for different cholesterol medications. And if you're like most people, you want to understand what the medication prescribed by your doctor will do. If your cholesterol levels are too high, then chances are you received a prescription for cholesterol medication. There are several different classes of this medication, each impacting cholesterol in a different way.

Every class of cholesterol medication will attempt to lower the amount of LDL or "bad" cholesterol in your system. Medications like bile acid binding resins, fibrates, statins, and absorption inhibitors are all part of this category. There are also common side effects to cholesterol drugs falling into these classes. And almost all of these side effects involve abdominal problems. Commonly experienced problems include nausea, stomach cramps, constipation and bloating.

Other forms of cholesterol medication will also attempt to moderate or decrease triclycerides. Absorption inhibitors, fibrates and statins all will work on your triclyceride levels as well as the LDL cholesterol. Side effects are basically the same as the first class and are generally stomach related.

Finally, a third class of cholesterol medication will not only increase the LDL cholesterol, it will also help produce a light increase in the HDL or "good" cholesterol. Statins, fibrates and absorption inhibitors can fall into this category. As always, keep a careful watch for any side effects. If they are more severe than you would generally expect, notify your doctor.

Television and magazines have made most of the brand names of these cholesterol medications quickly recognizable. Let your doctor explain which type of cholesterol medication he feels is best for you, and have him explain why.

We mentioned side effects but it's entirely possible you won't experience any of them. Sometimes they start out very light, and then disappear altogether. But if you do experience any of these side effects and they seem to be severe, be sure to let your doctor know as soon as possible. With so many different choices on the market, it's no problem to try another cholesterol medication until you find one that works without causing you any pain.