DISCLAIMER: The content provided here is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Talk with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
My background
I was first diagnosed with high cholesterol when I was in high school. I am currently 69 years old. That means that I have been taking a statin for over 50 years. Not only do I worry about having taken the drug for so many years, but it also means that I’ve struggled with the side effects of taking atorvastatin – including muscle aches, constipation, charlie horses that wake me in the middle of the night as I scream and run trying to “work it out,” etc. I’ve been doing a little digging into the newest drug for lowering cholesterol and figured that I’d share what I’ve found with you. Please note that I am not a medical professional. I am actually a former actress and dancer (so those muscle cramps and aches made my work-life have to go on hold at times).
Want to know more?
If so, then listen up. Like me, you may have heard of the recent FDA approval of Nexletol (bempedoic acid), an innovative treatment used to lower “bad” cholesterol levels in adult patients with hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol). But what is it actually and how does it work? I am sharing the essential information about bempedoic acidthat I’ve been learning from my research including: what it is, who can benefit from taking it and how to get started. Read on to learn more!
A healthy diet is very important with you have high cholesterol.
Why is this an important find?
Bempedoic Acid (the generic name of Nexletol) is a small molecule therapy designed to reduce levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in adults with certain forms of hypercholesterolemia, a condition that causes high cholesterol levels. When used alongside diet and other healthy lifestyle changes, it looks as though it can hels promote a reduction in bad cholesterol and an increase in good cholesterol, which in turn can help to lower the risk of heart attack and stroke, two of the most common and deadly cardiovascular diseases in the US.
What are the benefits of using it?
Nexletol (bempedoic acid) is an oral, once-daily medicine that can lower levels of bad cholesterol in the bloodstream. This medication has been shown to be more effective than statins for reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) in people with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and severe hypercholesterolemia. Unlike other forms of LDL-lowering therapies, Nexletol does not require liver monitoring or dosage adjustment, so it may be a good option for those who cannot take standard medications due to age or underlying conditions. Additionally, it has minimal side effects due to its simple structure and direct impact on cholesterol.
How does bempedoic acid work?
Nexletol (bempedoic acid) is an innovative cholesterol-lowering medication that works to reduce LDL (low-density lipoprotein “bad” cholesterol). It does this by binding to the adenosine triphosphate citrate lyase enzyme, preventing the formation of cholesterol in the body. This makes it an effective treatment for high LDL levels and reduces overall cholesterol count. Compared to other popular medications such as statins, this medication has a slower onset but can take longer to achieve desired results. A key advantage of using this drug is that it is taken orally only once a day and doesn’t require dietary changes or additional exercise interventions to work. Ultimately, anyone looking for a convenient and viable option for lowering LDL levels might want to talk to their doctor to see if it is a good alternative for them.
Potential risks
Because you know, as with ANY drug, that there are risks. While taking Nexletol may offer potential benefits, it is important to note that there are also potential risks associated with this medication. Side effects of taking the drug include diarrhea, back pain, and muscle pain (yes, those are some of the same side effects that I get when I take a statin). People who have liver or kidney problems, who are seniors, or take other medications may be at a higher risk for various side effects and should talk to their healthcare provider for more information about using Nexletol safely. Additionally, it’s essential that individuals taking this medication speak to their doctor if they experience any serious side effects or if the side effects become worse over time.
Tips for managing side effects
Managing any side effects associated with bempedoic acid can be difficult. The best advice is to contact your healthcare provider if you experience bothersome or persistent symptoms. For milder side effects, like upset stomachs or dizziness, it may help to take the medication with food or lower doses throughout the day, as well as stay adequately hydrated. Certain medications and supplements may also interfere with the effectiveness of Nexletol, so it’s important to discuss any medications that you are taking (remember that if you go to multiple doctors that you need to tell your treating physician ALL of the medication you take) beforehand with your doctor. Additionally, patients should always avoid alcohol while taking Nexletol in order for the medication to work properly. By following these tips and talking with your healthcare provider, you can be sure to get the most out of taking bempedoic acid safely and effectively.
Maximizing its effectiveness
Patients should thoroughly read the physician-prescribed medication guide included with Nexletol before beginning its use. Taking this medication in conjunction with a lifestyle full of healthy decisions – such as regular exercise and a balanced diet – will obviously make it much more effective. Always take the prescribed dosage, as specified by your healthcare provider to ensure that the full benefits of taking it are realized. In case of any adverse reactions or side effects, contact your doctor for directions on how to manage those issues and ask if you should or should not continue using it. Keep in mind that like most drugs, it may take several weeks before the full benefit of Nexletol are felt, so be sure to follow up with your doctor and continuously track your progress while taking this medicine.
It looks as if Nexletol is going to be an important medication for those like myself who are living with high cholesterol. With proper use and monitoring, the benefits of this medication far outweigh the potential risks and side effects. In order to get the most out of Nexletol, taking it as recommended by your doctor in the correct dose is of the utmost importance. It’s also important to watch out for signs and symptoms of any adverse side effects to ensure that it is right for you. If your cholesterol levels don’t improve after taking Nexletol (bempedoic acid), talk to your doctor about other possible medications or treatments that could help you. Above all else, be sure to follow up with your doctor regularly while using this medication so they can review and monitor your progress in achieving a healthy lifestyle overall.
I am planning on asking my primary care physician if this drug would be a good choice, just because I’ve been taking my statin for so long.
