Review Article

Addressing Lipid Treatment Targets Beyond Cholesterol: A Role for Prescription Omega-3 Fatty Acid Therapy

Authors: Tara L. Dall MD, Harold Bays MD

Abstract

Abstract:Decreasing very high triglyceride (TG) levels (≥500 mg/dL) is recommended to prevent pancreatitis. Decreasing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is the primary lipid treatment target to reduce the risk of atherosclerotic coronary heart disease. A secondary lipid treatment target for patients at LDL-C goal, but with persistent TG elevations, includes achievement of non–high density lipoprotein cholesterol goals (non–HDL-C). Statins are the mainstay of therapy to lower LDL-C, but statin monotherapy may not achieve all lipid treatment goals. Thus, in patients with multiple lipid abnormalities, combination lipid-altering therapy is often necessary. Drugs such as niacin and fibrates provide lipid benefits beyond LDL-C when used in combination with a statin. Prescription omega-3-fatty acids combined with statin therapy also provide improvements in lipid parameters beyond cholesterol alone.

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References

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