Is it effective to take statins for high triglycerides?

Feb 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
In general, statins refer to statin drugs such as atorvastatin calcium tablets, pravastatin sodium tablets, and simvastatin tablets. Whether statin medications are effective for elevated triglycerides mainly depends on the severity of the condition. They are usually effective for mild to moderate elevations in triglycerides, but may not be effective for severe elevations.

Generally, statins refer to a class of medications including atorvastatin calcium tablets, pravastatin sodium tablets, simvastatin tablets, and others. Whether statins are effective for elevated triglycerides mainly depends on the severity of the condition. If triglyceride levels are mildly to moderately elevated, statins are usually effective; however, if the elevation is severe, statins may be less effective. If any discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

Statins primarily work by inhibiting the activity of cholesterol-synthesizing enzymes in the liver, thereby lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in the blood. They also help reduce triglyceride levels. Therefore, for mild to moderate elevations in triglycerides, statin therapy is effective and can significantly lower the risk of cardiovascular events.

If triglyceride levels are severely elevated, using statins alone may not adequately control triglyceride levels and could even increase the risk of pancreatitis. In such cases, other lipid-lowering medications, such as fenofibrate granules, bezafibrate capsules, or acipimox capsules, may be prescribed under a doctor's guidance. These medications are specifically targeted toward managing hypertriglyceridemia.

In daily life, it is important to maintain a healthy diet by reducing intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods, increasing dietary fiber and adequate protein intake, and maintaining regular physical activity to manage weight. These lifestyle modifications are beneficial for maintaining healthy lipid levels and preventing abnormal elevations in triglycerides.

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