CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGICAL CONCEPTS FOR THE RATIONAL SELECTION AND USE OF DRUGS FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF DYSLIPIDEMIA

The long-term clinical benefits of lowering serum lipid levels have be en demonstrated in multiple clinical trials in recent years. These inc lude coronary artery disease regression and decreases in the incidence of adverse clinical events, such as myocardial infarction or refracto ry ischemia. Reductions in overall mortality have also been demonstrat ed. The health risk of dyslipidemia led the National Cholesterol Educa tion Program expert panel to recommend intervention to bring low-densi ty lipoprotein cholesterol values to within certain goal levels throug h a variety of interventions. This article reviews the available pharm acologic agents and compares their efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiv eness.