How to Treat Cholesterol Medication Side Effects

The most common medication used to treat patients with high cholesterol is a category of drugs referred to as statins. Additionally, niacin, bile-acid resin and fibric acid derivatives are also commonly prescribed to treat this condition. You may expect to experience side effects from any of these treatments, some of which may require additional treatment.

Things You'll Need

• Wedge pillow
• Cholesterol medication
• Antihistamine
• Fiber therapy

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Instructions

Treat the Side Effects of Cholesterol Medication

• 1

  Know that the most common side effect among most medications used to treat cholesterol is an upset stomach. This may occur in the form of indigestion, heartburn, constipation or even stomach pain.

• 2

  Talk to your doctor before you treat side effects such as heartburn or indigestion with over-the-counter antacids. These medications may decrease the efficacy of your cholesterol medication by inhibiting the absorption process.

• 3

  Invest in a wedge-shaped pillow if you are experiencing the side effect of heartburn caused by your cholesterol medication. This will help ease the discomfort of heartburn while sleeping.

• 4

  Inform your doctor if you develop a rash after taking any kind of cholesterol medication, as this may indicate that you are suffering from an allergic reaction to the medication. In many cases, the rash may be treated with topical antihistamines or over-the-counter allergy medication.

• 5

  Discuss the use of fiber therapy to treat constipation caused by some cholesterol medications with your doctor. In addition to making you more regular, soluble and insoluble fiber can aid in reducing your cholesterol.

• 6

  Understand that some patients may experience some sexual dysfunction such as a decreased libido. You should talk with your doctor before you pursue additional medications to treat disorders such as erectile dysfunction while taking a cholesterol medication.

• 7

  Find that many patients who take cholesterol medications in the form of statins may experience permanent side effects such as kidney and liver damage. Talk to your doctor about the risks of taking statins before you begin treatment if you suffer from liver disease or believe your kidneys or liver have been compromised by other medical conditions.