High LDL, or bad cholesterol levels increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, especially in those with high LDL levels and low levels of HDL (good cholesterol).
At the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2011 researchers presented preliminary findings on the efficacy of evacetrapib on cholesterol levels in 398 patients with high LDL levels and low HDL levels, which indicate it may substantially increase levels of good cholesterol whilst lowering bad cholesterol levels.
Senior Cardiac Nurse, Natasha Stewart from the British Heart Foundation commented on the study:
“This study indicates that evacetrapib may potentially have some effect on helping to lower bad cholesterol and improve good cholesterol levels in the blood. However, it is a very small study performed over a very short period of time, and we need to see studies on a larger scale to determine how beneficial this drug will be in the long run. We already know statins can be beneficial in reducing the level of cholesterol in your blood, and help to protect healthy but high-risk people from heart disease, as well preventing repeated problems in people who have already had a heart attack, a stroke or been diagnosed with peripheral artery disease.
We also know that making simple changes in your lifestyle such as having a diet that is low in fat, and participating in regular physical activity, can also help lower your cholesterol and keep your heart healthy.”
Written by Petra Rattue