Cardiovascular Meds: cholesterol

Question 1

Explain the role of LDL and HDL, and how they affect the risk of developing atherosclerosis

Answer 1

LDL (60-70%) delivers cholesterol to tissues. The elevated LDL levels will increase the risk of atherosclerosis

HDL (20-30%) carries cholesterol from tissues back to liver. The elevated HDL level decreases the risk of atherosclerosis

**cholesterol come from dietary sources OR made by the liver

Question 2

Discuss 3 major factors for the development of atherosclerosis

Answer 2

Hypertension
Smoking
High LDL cholesterol

Question 3

Explain the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis

Answer 3

Damage to the endothelium of BVs
–> LDLs cross damaged endothelium into the wall of the artery
–> over time cholesterol becomes part of the plaque
–> circulation is compromised
–> higher risk of stroke of MI

Essentially, atherosclerosis is a hardening & narrowing of the arteries!

Question 4

Explain how statins work to reduce serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL)

Answer 4

Increases the number of LDL receptors in the liver
–> less serum LDL

Question 5

2 rare side effects of statin therapy

Answer 5

1. hepato-toxicity
2. Myopathy (report any symptoms of unanticipated muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness)

**the serious myopathy is called rhabdomyolysis, which can cause renal failure!

Question 6

The target LDL level to reduce cardiovascular risk in a healthy patient

Answer 6

LDL < 100 mg/dL

Question 7

The target LDL level to reduce cardiovascular risk in a high-risk patient

Answer 7

LDL < 70 mg/dL

Question 8

Recommend the best time of day for patients to take a statin drug

Answer 8

NIGHT

Atorvastatin
Lovastatin
Pravastatin
Simvastatin