Cholesterol off side effects
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Cholesterol-Lowering Treatments and Their Side Effects
Cholesterol-lowering treatments, including medications and surgical interventions, are essential for managing high cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, these treatments can also have side effects that need to be carefully considered. This article synthesizes the findings from various studies on the side effects of cholesterol-lowering treatments.
Simvastatin Side Effects
Simvastatin, a commonly prescribed HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, is effective in lowering LDL cholesterol, VLDL cholesterol, and IDL cholesterol levels. However, it also has some side effects. A study by the Oxford Cholesterol Study Group found that simvastatin can lead to marginally significant reductions in factor VII antigen levels and non-significant reductions in factor VII coagulant activity and fibrinogen concentrations. Additionally, plasminogen activator inhibitor activity was significantly higher among patients taking simvastatin. These changes in haemostatic variables suggest that while simvastatin is effective in lipid reduction, its impact on blood clotting factors is less pronounced.
Partial Ileal By-Pass Surgery Side Effects
Partial ileal by-pass surgery is another method used to treat familial hypercholesterolemia. This surgical intervention significantly reduces plasma cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. However, it also has notable side effects. Patients undergoing this surgery experienced transient increases in alanine aminotransferase levels, persistent diarrhea, and slight steatorrhea. Long-term side effects included a significant increase in renal excretion of oxalic acid and a reduction in intestinal calcium absorption. These metabolic side effects highlight the need for ongoing medical care for patients who undergo this procedure.
7-Ketocholesterol-Induced Side Effects
7-Ketocholesterol (7KC) is an oxysterol formed during cholesterol oxidation and is associated with various age-related diseases, including cardiovascular diseases and neurodegenerative disorders. The accumulation of 7KC in tissues can lead to oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell death. To mitigate these side effects, natural compounds such as tocopherols, fatty acids, and polyphenols have been identified as potential inhibitors of 7KC's deleterious effects. These compounds could be used in functional foods or as therapeutic agents to prevent or treat diseases associated with 7KC.
Conclusion
While cholesterol-lowering treatments are crucial for managing high cholesterol levels and reducing cardiovascular risk, they come with side effects that must be managed. Simvastatin affects haemostatic variables, partial ileal by-pass surgery has metabolic side effects, and 7-ketocholesterol can induce oxidative stress and inflammation. Understanding these side effects and exploring natural compounds for mitigation can help optimize treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes.
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