If you’re looking to obtain lower LDL cholesterol levels, one way of doing so is through the use of prescription drugs. Most doctors will prescribe some kind of statin drug to start with. One example of a statin drug commonly used to lower LDL cholesterol is called , or Pitavastatin.
But what is , really? Let’s find out.
What is ?
belongs to a group of drugs called statins. The actual name of the statin drug class is called HMG CoA reductase inhibitors. Essentially, , or Pitavastatin, helps to reduce levels of LDL cholesterol, while increasing levels of HDL cholesterol. For those who don’t know, LDL cholesterol is the “bad” kind of cholesterol, which is why people look for drugs that help lower LDL cholesterol levels. So if LDL is bad, that means HDL cholesterol is the “good” kind, right? Correct.
Statin drugs, which includes , block an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase. What’s the benefit of blocking this enzyme? Well, this will help bring the cholesterol in an individual’s blood to a healthier, normal level.
For the most part, is used to treat adults that are suffering from high levels of cholesterol. It is important to work towards obtaining lower LDL cholesterol because it can help prevent heart disease and the hardening of arteries. You can work towards obtaining lower LDL cholesterol levels by making various lifestyle changes, like exercising regularly and eating healthy, but some find doing all three (exercise, diets, and medication) helps lower LDL cholesterol the most.
has a number of benefits, but not everyone is an ideal candidate for this statin drug. Age plays into it, with doctors suggesting that people over the age of 65 should not take . Additionally, individuals should not take if they are allergic to Pitavastatin, or if they are pregnant or breastfeeding. Further, is not recommended if an individual has, or has ever had, liver disease. Keep in mind this includes abnormal liver enzyme test results.
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Posted on May 5, 2023