Drugs and Risk Factors for Atherosclerosis

A buildup of plaque in the arteries, narrowing the blood vessel lumen and limiting blood flow.

A condition caused by atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries, which supply oxygenated blood to the heart.

A condition where the heart can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs due to restricted blood flow caused by atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis in arteries outside the heart (e.g., legs, arms), causing reduced blood flow to the affected areas.

Protein-lipid complexes that carry cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.

High-density lipoprotein; considered "good" cholesterol, carrying cholesterol away from the arteries to the liver.

Low-density lipoprotein; considered "bad" cholesterol as it contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries.

Drugs that lower LDL and total cholesterol levels by inhibiting cholesterol production in the liver.

A drug that inhibits cholesterol absorption from the intestines.

Blood disorders characterized by an inability to break down lipids/fats in the body.

Lifestyle choices, such as obesity, smoking, lack of exercise, and high blood pressure, that increase the risk of atherosclerosis.

Chest pain caused by insufficient oxygen supply to the heart during exertion.

A type of fat-like substance that's essential for various body functions, but high levels in the blood can contribute to health problems.

A combination of behavioral changes and drug therapy used to lower blood cholesterol and related lipids.

Cholestyramine can cause constipation and bloating.

The liver produces proteins that manage cholesterol levels.

These drugs target a protein (PCSK9) to control LDL cholesterol.

Specialized proteins that are used in targeted drug therapies.

PCSK9 Inhibitors can significantly lower LDL cholesterol levels.

PCSK9 Inhibitors are usually given by injection every 2-4 weeks.

Mild skin reactions, injection site reactions, and upper respiratory infections are potential side effects.

PCSK9 Inhibitors might have limitations related to patient compliance.

LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels can be evaluated to assess the effectiveness of treatment.

The process by which the body regulates and manages cholesterol.

Drugs that lower triglycerides and VLDL in the blood.

Increased breakdown of triglycerides by reducing VLDL secretion.

High levels of triglycerides in the blood.

Example of a Fibric Acid Derivative used to treat high triglycerides.

A medication that lowers cholesterol by binding to bile acids in the gut.

Example of a Bile Acid Binding Resin.

Possible side effects include rashes, upset stomach, myopathy, and hyperkalemia.

Bind bile acids, preventing their reabsorption and therefore lowering cholesterol.

An enzyme involved in the production of cholesterol in the liver.

Statins inhibit HMG-CoA reductase, the enzyme that produces cholesterol in the liver, thus reducing LDL and total cholesterol levels.

Drugs that prevent the absorption of cholesterol and bile acids in the gut.

They increase the breakdown of triglycerides by reducing the production and secretion of VLDL.

They bind to bile acids in the gut, preventing them from being absorbed back into the bloodstream, thus reducing cholesterol production in the liver.

Examples of PCSK9 inhibitors.

They block the PCSK9 protein, which helps the liver remove LDL-cholesterol, resulting in a decrease in LDL levels.

Muscle pain (myopathy), liver enzyme elevations, and potential for interactions with other drugs.

Generally well-tolerated, but some individuals may experience diarrhea or abdominal pain.

Possible side effects may include rashes, upset stomach, muscle problems (myopathy), and elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia).

Common side effects include constipation, bloating, and gas.

Potential side effects include mild skin reactions, injection site reactions, and upper respiratory tract infections.

PCSK9 Inhibitors are typically used as a last resort for individuals with very high LDL cholesterol levels, particularly when other treatments haven't been effective.

Low-Density Lipoprotein cholesterol, known as the 'bad' cholesterol as it contributes to plaque buildup in arteries.

Statins lower LDL cholesterol by inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the liver, leading to a decrease in LDL levels.

They prevent the absorption of dietary cholesterol in the gut, reducing the amount of LDL cholesterol circulating in the blood.

They bind to bile acids in the gut, preventing their reabsorption, leading to increased cholesterol production and a decrease in LDL levels.

They block a protein (PCSK9) that prevents the liver from removing LDL cholesterol, allowing the body to clear more LDL from the blood.

Lowering high LDL cholesterol levels reduces the risk of atherosclerosis, heart disease, and other cardiovascular problems.

There are statins, sterol absorption inhibitors, bile acid binding resins, and PCSK9 inhibitors, each with a unique mechanism of action.