n some cases, lifestyle changes are not enough to reduce cholesterol to desirable levels. In these cases, your doctor may consider using medication that has been proven to lower cholesterol. Outlined below is a summary of options that have been clinically proven to be effective in reducing cholesterol.

Statins (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors) are the most widely recommended class of drugs used for treatment of high cholesterol. They work within the liver to inhibit the natural production of cholesterol in the body. The reduced LDL levels help prevent the build-up of plaque that forms on arteries which can block blood flow to the heart. The most common statin drugs are:

• Lipitor (Atorvastatin)
• Zocor (Simvastatin)
• Mevacor (Lovastatin)
• Lescol (Flavastatin)
• Pravacol (Pravastatin)

Bile Acid Sequestrants are drugs that bind bile acids, prevent their reabsorption from the digestive system and reduce cholesterol levels. Bile acids are produced in the liver from cholesterol and secreted into the small intestine to help with the absorption of dietary fat and cholesterol. Bile acid sequestrants bind bile acids in the small intestine and carry them out of the body. This causes the body to "use" more cholesterol to make more bile acids. The end result is lower cholesterol levels. The most common are:

• Questran (Cholestyramine)
  
• Colestid (Colestipol)
  
• WelChol (Colesevlam)

Cholesterol Absorption Inhibitors (CAI) block absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine, which decreases the uptake of dietary cholesterol. There are 3 clinically proven strategies for cholesterol absorption inhibitors on the market today: Ezetimibe (brand name Zeitia), a prescription drug that works similar to stain drugs, ChoLESStolife, an all natural fat-free supplement derived from plant sterols and stanols, and Benecol, a canola oil-based food spread derived from plant stanol esters.

In addition, Nicotinic acid (B Vitamin Niacin) may lower LDL levels as well as triglycerides (the chemical form in which most fat exists in food as well as in the body) while raising HDL levels. Also Fibric acids may lower LDL to a certain extent but are mainly used to reduce triglycerides.

It is extremely important that you understand the medication you’re taking and why. Consult your doctor about what you’re being treated for and how each medicine you are taking helps. Be sure and ask your doctor about the side effects of any medications you’re taking, and how the medication is affected by other medicines you use or foods you eat. It’s important to understand how best to use your medicine.

Ask your doctor what to do if you miss a dose or have problems with side effects. Taking your medicine at the same time every day will help build a routine that will help you remember to take your medicine.