Question

A patient who has been taking lovastatin (mevacor) has seen an improvement in his cholesterol laboratory values; however, the low-density lipoprotein remains elevated. what medication will be added to the medical regime?

Answer 1

If the patient’s low-density lipoprotein (LDL) remains elevated after taking lovastatin (mevacor), then the following additional medication(s) can be added to the medical regime;
1. Bile acid sequesterants e.g. colesevelam, cholestyramine sucrose, or colestipol. When these types of meds are combined with statins, the reduction of LDL will double or more.
2. Cholesterol absorption inhibitors e.g. ezetimibe or PCSK9. It can provide a dual mechanism for cholesterol level reduction.