Cholesterol absorption inhibitors

Cholesterol Absorption Inhibitors

Cholesterol absorption inhibitors (pronunciation: kuh-LES-ter-ol ab-SORP-shun in-HIB-it-ors) are a class of medications used to lower the levels of cholesterol in the body.

Etymology

The term "cholesterol absorption inhibitors" is derived from the words "cholesterol", a type of fat found in the body, "absorption", which refers to the process by which substances are taken up by the body, and "inhibitors", which are substances that slow down or stop a chemical reaction.

Function

Cholesterol absorption inhibitors work by reducing the amount of cholesterol that the body absorbs from the diet. They do this by blocking the action of a protein in the intestines that is responsible for cholesterol absorption. This results in a lower amount of cholesterol being absorbed into the bloodstream, which can help to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Examples

One of the most commonly used cholesterol absorption inhibitors is Ezetimibe. This medication is often used in combination with a statin, another type of cholesterol-lowering medication, to achieve optimal cholesterol levels in patients with high cholesterol.

Side Effects

Like all medications, cholesterol absorption inhibitors can have side effects. These can include stomach pain, fatigue, and muscle soreness. It is important to discuss these potential side effects with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.

Related Terms

• Hypercholesterolemia: A condition characterized by very high levels of cholesterol in the blood.
• Lipid: A type of fat found in the body.
• Lipoprotein: A compound made up of a protein and a lipid. The body uses lipoproteins to transport lipids in the blood.

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