Understanding Your Cholesterol Medications: A Patient's Guide

Types of Cholesterol-Lowering Medications

Statins

• Common medications: atorvastatin, rosuvastatin, simvastatin
• How they work: Block liver enzyme that produces cholesterol
• When to take: Usually in the evening
• Common side effects: Muscle aches, liver changes

PCSK9 Inhibitors

• Common medications: evolocumab, alirocumab
• How they work: Injectable medications that help remove cholesterol from blood
• When to take: Every 2-4 weeks as prescribed
• Common side effects: Injection site reactions

Bile Acid Sequestrants

• Common medications: cholestyramine, colesevelam
• How they work: Bind to bile acids in intestines
• When to take: Before meals with water

Important Medication Tips

1. Take medications exactly as prescribed
2. Never skip doses without consulting your doctor
3. Report side effects promptly
4. Store medications properly
5. Keep regular follow-up appointments

Lifestyle Modifications

• Maintain a heart-healthy diet
• Exercise regularly
• Quit smoking
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Monitor cholesterol levels

When to Contact Your Doctor

• Unexplained muscle pain or weakness
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Severe stomach pain
• Unusual fatigue
• Dark-colored urine