ABSTRACT
Dyslipidemia in the form of abnormalities in total cholesterol, lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides (TG), and/or a reduced level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) is a significant risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD). The newer pharmacologic agents to reduce cholesterol include ezetimibe and PCSK9 inhibitors. The role of ezetimibe influencing LDL-C and CHD risk was highlighted by the IMPROVE-IT trial. Low HDL-C also is associated with development and progression of atherosclerosis and is generally considered a secondary target for therapeutic intervention. Triglyceride (TG) levels in the blood are elevated for about an hour following a meal, primarily as part of TG-rich chylomicrons, and in the fasting state they are primarily carried by Very Low Density Lipoprotein. Health consequences associated with excess body weight include dyslipidemia, all components of the metabolic syndrome, and thereby an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and CHD.
