Hyperlipoproteinemia Treatment & Management
- Author: Hampton Roy Sr, MD; Chief Editor: Hampton Roy Sr, MD more...
Medical Care
- Systemic
- Drugs are used to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
- Because of the possibility of adverse effects and the question of whether the triglyceride level is an independent risk factor for atherosclerosis, many physicians use drugs to reduce the triglyceride level only when the level exceeds 500 mg/100 mL.
- Examples of these drugs include lovastatin, pravastatin, and simvastatin.
- A study by Shimabukuro et al found that the impact on lipoprotein subclass profiles varies between pitavastatin and atorvastatin. Determining the lipoprotein subclass profile and selecting the appropriate statin in patients with diabetes and an additional cardiovascular risk, such as low HDL cholesterol or hypertriglyceridemia may be beneficial.[2]
- Supportive
- Weight reduction and a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol are advocated.
- Patients should avoid alcohol and estrogen in certain types of hyperlipoproteinemias.
Surgical Care
Ileal bypass surgery and plasmapheresis to lower elevated serum lipids are used in selected cases of familial hypercholesterolemia. Only experienced physicians should use these therapies.
Consultations
Internist or family practitioner
Diet
A low-fat diet is recommended, including fruit, vegetables, chicken, and fish.
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