8. Cholesterol and Lipid Lowering

What is the memory key for statins?

-STATIN = HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor

What is the main use of statins?

LDL reduction/CV risk reduction

What muscle-related safety problems are associated with statins?

Myopathy and rhabdomyolysis

What liver-related safety problem is associated with statins?

Liver enzyme elevations

Which statins have especially important grapefruit interactions?

Simvastatin and lovastatin

Which other statin may be affected by grapefruit depending on the amount?

Atorvastatin

Should two statins be duplicated?

No

What is the memory key for ezetimibe?

It blocks cholesterol absorption

What is the memory key for fibrates?

They lower triglycerides

What is the memory key for PCSK9 inhibitors?

They are injectable LDL-lowering drugs

What can happen when gemfibrozil is combined with statins?

Myopathy risk increases

Is gemfibrozil especially problematic with some statins?

Yes

What common adverse effect does niacin cause?

Flushing

What liver-related risk is important with niacin?

Hepatotoxicity

What other effects are important with niacin?

Glucose and uric acid effects

How are PCSK9 inhibitors administered?

Subcutaneously

How are PCSK9 inhibitors commonly stored?

Refrigerated

Should PCSK9 inhibitors be frozen?

No