Hyperlipidemia; acquired
Alternative names:
acquired hyperlipoproteinemia; high blood cholesterol; high
blood triglycerides; high cholesterol; high triglycerides;
hyperlipidemia
Treatment:
The goal of therapy is to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis
and cardiovascular disease
through therapy aimed at lowering the blood lipid levels.
Dietary modification is the initial step in treatment. For
overweight individuals,
weight reduction to ideal
body weight is recommended. Reduction of total calories,
cholesterol, and saturated
fat is appropriate for most people. The degree of dietary
restriction is proportional to the degree of the hyperlipidemia.
If there is no improvement in lipid blood levels within 2
months after maximal dietary modification, drug therapy is
generally initiated. The type of drug chosen depends upon
the type of lipoprotein elevated in the serum. Several types
of medications are available. Bile sequestrant resins, cholestyramine,
colestipol, lovastatin, and nicotinic
acid are drugs that may be prescribed for mild to moderate
hyperlipidemia.
The class of drugs prescribed for the most common cause of
hyperlipidemia is the HMG-coA reductase inhibitors. These
drugs, also known as the statins, are prescribed for patients
with elevated LDL levels. Most patients with a history of
heart attack or high risk for heart attack who have high cholesterol
should be prescribed one of these medications. The statins
have been shown in studies to reduce death from heart attacks
in patients with a history of coronary artery disease.(DON'T
STOP TAKING PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION WITHOUT CONSULTING YOUR
HEALTH CARE PROVIDER.)
Expectations (prognosis):
Drug and diet therapy is likely to continue throughout the
life of the affected individual. Periodic monitoring of blood
levels is necessary to determine the response to treatment.
In studies, reduction of high cholesterol levels has shown
a decrease in the progression of atherosclerosis.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
This condition is usually found by the health care provider
when lab work is examined. If you have hyperlipidemia, be
aware that you are at increased risk for heart
disease.
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if
you have this condition and have not scheduled periodic monitoring
of blood lipid levels.
Updated Date: 06/22/00
Updated by: David H. Stern, MD Chief Medical
Resident, University of Pennsylvania Hospital, VeriMed Healthcare
Network
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