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Reactions to Too Much Cholesterol Medication

Possible reactions to too much cholesterol medication can include constipation, nausea, muscle pain and shortness of breath. Liver damage may also be the result of taking drugs to lower cholesterol levels.

  1. Types

    • Statins work by lowering the bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides while slightly raising the good cholesterol (HDL). Reactions to statins, such as Crestor, Lescol, Lipitor and Mevacor, include muscle soreness and pain and weakness, according to Mayo Clinic.

    Significance

    • Bile acid binding resins, such as Colestid, Questran and Welchol, decrease LDL. Reactions can include dizziness, constipation and bloating, according to the American Heart Association.

    Potential

    • Cholesterol absorption inhibitors, such as Zetia, decrease LDL and slightly increase HDL. According to drugs.com, Zetia reactions may include pancreatitis, red skin rash, chest pain or jaundice.

    Effects

    • Fibrates, such as Lopid and TriCor, decrease triglycerides and increase HDL. Reactions to too much of either cholesterol medication may include nausea and gallstones, according to medicinenet.com.

    Function

    • Advicor, a combination statin and niacin cholesterol medication, decreases LDL and increases HDL. Reactions include abdominal pain, itching and flushing, according to PDRhealth.

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