What Is The Best Medication For High Triglycerides

What Are The Types Of Fibrate Drugs

There are several types of fibrates. You may take:

Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 02/10/2022.

References

• American Heart Association. Cholesterol Medications. Accessed 2/10/2022.
• Blais JE, Kin Yi Tong G, et al. Comparative efficacy and safety of statin and fibrate monotherapy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of head-to-head randomized controlled trials. 2021 Feb-. PLoS ONE 16: e0246480. Accessed 2/10/2022.
• Singh G, Correa R. Fibrate Medications. Treasure Island : StatPearls Publishing 2021 Jan-. Accessed 2/10/2022.

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Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services.Policy

Effect Of Low Dose Omega

Initial studies of the effect of fish oil administration on cardiovascular outcomes were favorable, demonstrating a reduction in events including all-cause mortality. However, more recent studies have failed to confirm these favorable results. In these more recent studies the use of other drugs, such as statins, that reduce cardiovascular disease were more intensively utilized. The outcomes studies that will be described below were carried out with doses of EPA and DHA that are lower than the doses used to lower plasma TGs. We will limit our discussion to the administration of fish oil as a drug and not discuss diet studies, such as DART, which had patients increase fatty fish intake .

The above results indicate that low dose fish oil do not significantly and consistently reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

How Can I Prevent Hypertriglyceridemia

Some causes cant be changed . But theres still a lot you can do in your daily life to prevent hypertriglyceridemia. Here are some steps you can take to help keep your numbers in the healthy range:

• Reduce sugar and refined carbohydrates.

Ask your healthcare provider for resources to help you manage your triglycerides.

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Establish A Regular Meal Pattern

Insulin resistance is another factor that can contribute to high blood triglycerides.

After you eat a meal, the cells in your pancreas send a signal to release insulin into the bloodstream. Insulin is then responsible for transporting sugar to your cells to be used for energy.

If you have too much insulin in your blood, your body can become resistant to it, making it difficult for your body to use insulin effectively. This can lead to a buildup of both sugar and triglycerides in the blood.

Fortunately, setting a regular eating pattern can help prevent insulin resistance and high triglycerides. For instance, research shows that not eating breakfast can lead to decreased insulin sensitivity .

An American Heart Association statement suggested that irregular eating patterns seemed less likely to achieve healthy cardiometabolic levels. They recommended intentional eating at regular times .

However, the evidence is mixed when it comes to meal frequency.

A 2013 study demonstrated that eating three meals per day significantly decreased triglycerides compared with eating six meals per day (

Regardless of how many meals youre eating daily, eating regular meals can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood triglyceride levels.

Summary

While studies are mixed on how meal frequency affects blood triglyceride levels, research suggests that sticking to a regular meal pattern can decrease many heart disease risk factors and prevent insulin resistance.

Medications That Can Cause High Triglycerides

Though they dont factor in to your total cholesterol level, blood fats called triglycerides still have an impact on your health. Extremely high triglycerides500 mg/dL or highercan put you at risk for pancreatitis. This inflammation of the pancreas gland can cause stomach pain, digestive problems, and, eventually, diabetes.

Almost one-third of American adults have high triglycerides. Obesity, family history, excess alcohol consumption, and a sedentary lifestyle often play a role. But certain medications for other health conditions also can influence your triglyceride level. If you take one of these drugs, ask your health care provider how often you should have a lipid panel. This measures your triglycerides and your cholesterol. Always talk with your health care provider before stopping or starting any medication.

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Effect Of Fibrates On Cardiovascular Outcomes

There have been a number of studies that have examined the effect of a variety of different fibrates on cardiovascular disease. We will describe the major studies below.

A separate meta-analysis has focused on the effect of fibrates on cardiovascular disease in patients with pre-existing disease . It included 13 trials involving a total of 16,112 participants. For the primary composite outcome of non-fatal stroke, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and vascular death, fibrate therapy significantly decreased risk by 12% 0.88, 95% 0.83 to 0.94). Fibrates were effective for preventing myocardial infarction . Fibrates were not effective in lowering all-cause mortality , death from vascular causes , or stroke events . Since clofibrate has been discontinued due to safety concerns, the data were reanalyzed excluding clofibrate trials. Without clofibrate, fibrates no longer significantly reduced the primary outcome but were still effective in preventing myocardial infarctions . Subgroup analyses showed the benefit of fibrates on the primary composite outcome to be consistent irrespective of age, gender, and diabetes mellitus.

SUMMARY OF OUTCOME STUDIES

Dangers Of High Triglycerides Levels

Also, high triglycerides may appear as a side effect of some medications such as contraception pills, diuretics, but blockers or steroids. High triglycerides usually mean that there are some other health issues which can lead to heart diseases. If you are overweight, have high blood pressure, high level of sugar in the blood and high cholesterol, beside high triglycerides, you should seek advice from your doctor and consider changing your lifestyle.

• Diet with high positive energy-intake balance and high fat or high glycaemic index.
• Increased alcohol consumption per day in men and women, respectively).
• Renal disease .
• Paraproteinaemia.
• Systemic lupus erythematosis.
• Medications, including corticosteroids, oral oestrogen, tamoxifen, thiazides, non-cardioselective beta-blockers and bile acid sequestrants, cyclophosphamide, L-asparaginase, protease inhibitors, and second-generation antipsychotic agents .

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How To Use Nicotinic Acid Capsule Extended Release

Take this medication by mouth with a low-fat meal or snack as directed by your doctor, usually 1-3 times daily. Taking niacin on an empty stomach increases side effects . Follow all directions on the product package. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, take it as directed. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Niacin is available in different formulations . Do not switch between strengths, brands, or forms of niacin. Severe liver problems may occur.

Swallow extended-release capsules whole. Do not crush or chew extended-release capsules or tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do not split extended-release tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing.

To lessen the chance of side effects such as flushing, avoid alcohol, hot beverages, and eating spicy foods near the time you take niacin. Taking a plain aspirin or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug 30 minutes before taking niacin may help prevent flushing. Ask your doctor if this treatment is right for you.

If you also take certain other drugs to lower cholesterol , take niacin at least 4 to 6 hours before or after taking these medications. These products interact with niacin, preventing its full absorption. Continue to take other medications to lower your cholesterol as directed by your doctor.

How Do Triglycerides Get Into The Blood

When we eat foods containing triglycerides, such as meat, dairy products, cooking oils and fats, they are absorbed by our intestines and packaged into parcels of fats and protein called chylomicrons . These carry the triglycerides in the blood stream to our tissues to be used for energy straight away, or stored for later.

The body also makes its own supply of triglycerides in the liver. This form is carried in a different type of lipoprotein known as VLDL cholesterol.

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Diets High In Calories Carbs And Fats

Triglyceride levels increase with a positive energy-intake balance . In other words, when you eat more than your body needs, the surplus is transformed into fat, including triglycerides. Its easier to overeat when your diet is high in calories and contains lots of carbs and saturated fats .

Low-fat, high-carbohydrate diets are among the most common causes of high triglycerides. But wait we said that high-fat diets are bad, so doesnt that mean a low-fat diet should be beneficial? Not quite .

Saturated, unhealthy fats are bad. But your body needs healthy fats such as those found in olive oil and fish oil to keep your triglyceride levels normal and to maintain your overall health. If you dont get enough dietary fats, your body will revert to transforming the sugars you consume into fats .

This goes against the popular but unfounded belief that your body wont store fat as long as you dont eat fats. In truth, high-carbohydrate diets can be much worse than high-fat diets for your triglyceride levels. Many scientists advocate that high-carb, low-fat diets likely also contributed to the obesity epidemic in America over the past few decades .

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What Are The Best Medications For Lowering Cholesterol

Here are five of the best medication options for lowering cholesterol. Some of the items in this list are herbal/natural supplements.

• Concerning Life Cholestro Destroyer

• Dr. Tobias Triple Strength Omega-3 Fish Oil

Overview:

This is a 100% natural cholesterol management supplement. Its primary function is to lower harmful cholesterol levels. An add-on function is helping improve the patients immune system while keeping the heart healthy and protected.

UltaLife Premium Cholesterol Support is made of the most exquisite heart-healthy ingredients like niacin, plant sterols, cayenne herb powder, guggulipids, policosanol, and garlic herb powder. Cayenne helps eliminate or lessen the build of plaque on the arterial walls.

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What Can You Do At Home To Treat High Triglycerides

The main way to deal with high triglycerides is to eat better and get more exercise. Here are some guidelines to help you manage your level:

Moderate exercise: Try to exercise 5 or more days each week. Lack of movement makes it hard for your body to process blood sugar and triglycerides as it normally does. So itâs important for you to get up and get moving more each day. Skip the escalator or elevator and climb stairs. Get off the bus or subway one stop early and walk. Find activities you enjoy: Walk, swim, or ride a bike. Join a gym. Talk to your doctor before you begin any exercise plan.

Watch your weight: If youâre carrying extra pounds, losing 5% to 10% of your weight can lower triglycerides. People with a healthy weight are more likely to have normal levels. Belly fat is associated with higher numbers.

Eat less bad fat and carbs: Try to lower the saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol in your diet. Cutting back on carbohydrates will help, too. Foods high in saturated fat, such as red meat, boost levels. Butter and cheese contain these same triglyceride-boosting fats. Choose lean meats or protein alternatives, such as chicken and unprocessed turkey, that are lower in saturated fat.

Another healthy option: Make meatless meals. Vegetarian pastas, chilis, and stir-fries are a delicious alternative to meat dishes. Avoid dishes loaded with cream or cheese in favor of recipes that use vegetable or olive oil and feature plenty of vegetables.

Which Medicines Can Lower Triglycerides

For some people, good habits may not be enough. Medication might be needed. The decision for you and your doctor can be complicated because other health conditions are usually involved. Several types of medicine can improve levels. They include:

• High doses of omega-3s are needed to lower triglycerides and should be taken only under a doctor’s care. Epanova, Lovaza, and Vascepa are prescription forms of omega-3s.

Your doctor may also prescribe a class of drugs called âstatinsâ that lower cholesterol. Examples include: atorvastatin , rosuvastatin , and simvastatin .

You may feel side effects from these drugs. Be sure to talk it over with your doctor or pharmacist.

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Strophanthus Hispidus: For Reducing Extreme Effects Of High Cholesterol

Strophanthus Hispidus is an excellent natural medicine for reducing the extreme effects of high cholesterol levels in blood. It is very efficient and safe remedy which can be used in old age to tone up the weak heart muscles. It also has the capacity to drain off the dropsical affections that have occurred from extreme effects on heart due to high cholesterol deposits. The heart affections that have resulted as a combined effect of tobacco smoking and high cholesterol levels also come under this medicine. The other symptoms that guide towards the use of Strophanthus Hispidus are excessive palpitations, cardiac pain and breathlessness.

Lowering Triglycerides Without Medication

Unless your triglycerides are extremely high, lifestyle changes are the best place to start. These simple steps can significantly lower triglyceride levels.

• Beware of bad fats. Cutting back on saturated fat and trans fats can lower triglycerides.
• Go for good carbs. Easily digested carbohydrates give triglycerides a definite boost. Eating whole grains and cutting back on soda can help control triglycerides.
• Check your alcohol use. In some people, alcohol dramatically boosts triglycerides. The only way to know if this is true for you is to avoid alcohol for a few weeks and have your triglycerides tested again.
• Go fish. Omega-3 fats in salmon, tuna, sardines, and other fatty fish can lower triglycerides. Having fish twice a week is fine.
• Aim for a healthy weight. If you are overweight, losing just 5% to 10% of your weight can help drive down triglycerides.
• Get moving. Exercise lowers triglycerides and boosts heart-healthy HDL cholesterol.
• Stop smoking. It isnt good for triglyceride levels or for anything else.

About the Author

Gregory Curfman, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Former Editor-in-Chief, Harvard Health Publishing

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Alternatives To Statins For Lowering Cholesterol

Your best treatment option for high cholesterol depends on many factors.

Before your doctor recommends a prescription medication, they will look at several things, such as:

• your family medical history
• your risk for heart disease

Many doctors prefer to start with changes to diet and exercise. If those changes dont have enough effect, you might start taking medication to help the process along.

Statins are one commonly prescribed medication for controlling cholesterol, but these drugs might not be right for everyone. There are several treatment options for high cholesterol, including other medications and lifestyle changes.

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How To Reduce Cholesterol Through Your Diet

The USDA developed a guide for adults and children called MyPlate which replaces the obsolete food pyramid. With the MyPlate approach, there are five food groups in set proportions: fruits, vegetables, proteins, grains, and dairy.

The plate is divided into sections:

• Vegetables: 40% of the plate
• Protein: 20% of the plate
• Grains: 30% of the plate
• Fruit: 10% of the plate
• Dairy: Small cup of yogurt or a glass of fat-free milk

Dividing the plate this way makes it easier to understand the types and quantity of food to include in each meal to make it balanced. This diet plan can also help those with high cholesterol levels to eat a healthy diet without excess fat.

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Lifestyle Management For High Triglycerides

If your triglyceride levels fall into the borderline high category, says Jacoby, Its extremely likely that making lifestyle improvements alone will control your levels. Most often, people with moderate levels have metabolic problems, including prediabetes and diabetes, which also respond well to healthy lifestyle changes.

The AHA/ACC guidelines recommend the following lifestyle changes to lower levels:

• Reduce your body weight
• Reduce your carbohydrate consumption
• Eat omega-3 fatty acids

Combining a low-carb diet with exercise and fish oil is often enough to get control of your triglycerides, says Jacoby, and can have the additional benefit of addressing metabolic problems and reducing body weight. For the majority of people with moderate to severe elevations, triglyceride levels are very responsive to a heart-healthy lifestyle. Its worth trying to normalize through those changes and then move on to medications if lifestyle isnt sufficient, he says.

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What Are The Causes And Symptoms Of High Triglycerides

Causes include obesity, eating too much unhealthy food, genetics, certain illnesses including poorly controlled diabetes, kidney disease, and underactive thyroid . Some drugs, such as steroids and birth control pills, and drinking a lot of alcohol can also cause it.

Most people have no symptoms. Very high levels can cause small fat deposits under the skin and a painful inflammation of the pancreas called pancreatitis.

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Replace Saturated Fats With Healthier Fats

Replacing foods that contain mainly saturated fats with foods that contain unsaturated fats such as polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats will help reduce your cholesterol level.

For example, instead of butter and cream in cooking, use olive oil, nut butters or avocado.

Healthy unsaturated fats are found in:

How Does My Health Care Provider Decide Which Cholesterol Medicine I Should Take

When deciding which medicine you should take and which dose you need, your health care provider will consider:

• Your cholesterol levels
• Your risk for heart disease and stroke
• Any other health problems you have
• Possible side effects of the medicines. Higher doses are more likely to cause side effects, especially over time.

Medicines can help control your cholesterol, but they dont cure it. You need to keep taking your medicines and get regular cholesterol checks to make sure that you cholesterol levels are in a healthy range.

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