Lipid-lowering agent

A lipid-lowering agent (pronunciation: /ˈlɪpɪd ˈloʊərɪŋ ˈeɪdʒənt/) is a type of medication that is used to reduce the levels of lipids in the blood. These agents are often prescribed to individuals with high cholesterol levels, a condition known as hypercholesterolemia, to prevent or treat cardiovascular disease.

Etymology

The term "lipid-lowering agent" is derived from the words "lipid", which refers to a group of naturally occurring molecules that include fats, waxes, sterols, fat-soluble vitamins (such as vitamins A, D, E, and K), monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, and phospholipids, and "agent", which in this context refers to a substance or object that produces an effect or is used for a particular purpose.

Types of Lipid-lowering agents

There are several types of lipid-lowering agents, each of which works in a different way to reduce lipid levels. These include:

Statins: These are the most commonly prescribed lipid-lowering agents. They work by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a central role in the production of cholesterol in the liver.
Fibrates: These drugs reduce the production of triglycerides and can increase the production of HDL, the "good" cholesterol.
Niacin: Also known as vitamin B3, niacin can help lower LDL, the "bad" cholesterol, and increase HDL.
Bile acid sequestrants: These drugs work by binding to bile acids in the intestine, preventing their reabsorption and thereby reducing the level of cholesterol in the body.
Cholesterol absorption inhibitors: These drugs reduce the amount of dietary cholesterol absorbed by the intestines.

Related Terms

Hyperlipidemia: A condition characterized by abnormally elevated levels of any or all lipids or lipoproteins in the blood.
Dyslipidemia: An abnormal amount of lipids in the blood, which can be either too high or too low.
Atherosclerosis: A disease in which plaque builds up inside your arteries, often associated with high cholesterol levels.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Lipid-lowering agent
Wikipedia's article - Lipid-lowering agent

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Lipid-lowering agent