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How
can levels of HDL cholesterol be raised?
The first step in increasing HDL cholesterol levels
(and decreasing LDL/HDL ratios) is therapeutic life
style changes.
When
these modifications are insufficient, medications are
used. In prescribing medications or medication combinations,
doctors have to take into account medication side effects
as well as the presence or absence of other abnormalities
in cholesterol profiles.
Regular aerobic exercise, loss of excess weight (fat),
and cessation of smoking cigarettes will increase HDL
cholesterol levels. Regular alcohol consumption (such
as one drink a day) will also raise HDL cholesterol.
Because
of other adverse health consequences of excessive alcohol
consumption, alcohol is not recommended as a standard
treatment for low HDL cholesterol.
Medications
that are effective in increasing HDL cholesterol include
nicotinic acid (niacin), gemfibrozil (Lopid), estrogen,
and to a much lesser extent, the statin drugs (discussed
below).
A newer medicine, fenofibrate (Tricor) has shown much
promise in selectively increasing HDL levels and reducing
serum triglycerides.
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