Cholesterol is a fatty substance found in the blood that, when present in excess, can lead to serious health issues such as heart disease, stroke, and atherosclerosis. Managing cholesterol levels is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health, and a variety of medications have been developed to help individuals achieve and maintain optimal cholesterol levels. Cholesterol medicines, also known as lipid-lowering agents, play a vital role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events by targeting specific aspects of cholesterol metabolism. Statins, one of the most commonly prescribed classes of cholesterol medications, work by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which reduces the liver's production of cholesterol. Other classes of drugs, such as fibrates, niacin, and bile acid sequestrants, target cholesterol in different ways, either by reducing its production, enhancing its removal from the bloodstream, or increasing its excretion. More recently, newer therapies like PCSK9 inhibitors and cholesterol absorption inhibitors have emerged, offering additional options for patients who require more aggressive cholesterol management.
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