Side Effects of Cholesterol Medication

Medications to lower cholesterol are used when lifestyle changes do not produce a strong enough change. Cholesterol medications may work by lowering LDL ("bad cholesterol") and triglycerides and by raising HDL ("good cholesterol"). Side effects from cholesterol medications vary by the type and dosage of the medicine and may differ between people.

Statins

• Statins lower LDL and triglycerides, and side effects include nausea, stomach pain, cramps, diarrhea, constipation and muscle soreness. Interactions with grapefruit and grapefruit juice are possible.

Bile Binding Resins

• Bile binding resins decrease LDL and may cause side effects including bloating, gas, and constipation, and may increase triglycerides.

Cholesterol Absorption Inhibitors

• Cholesterol absorption inhibitors lower LDL and triglycerides, and side effects include stomach pain, tiredness and muscle aches.

Fibrates

• Fibrates decrease triglycerides and increase HDL, but may cause side effects such as nausea, stomach cramps and gallstones.

Niacin

• Prescription niacin can lower LDL and triglycerides and increase HDL, but may cause side effects including flushing of the face and neck, dizziness, nausea, high blood sugar and stomach ulcers.

Combination Drugs

• Combinations of statins and cholesterol absorption inhibitors, such as the brand-name drug Vytorin, may cause stomach pains, gas, constipation, stomach cramps, and muscle pain and weakness.

Warning

• Cholesterol medications may cause damage to the liver, including liver failure. Regular liver function tests should be done to monitor the health of the liver.