Hepatotoxic Effects of Lipid-altering Agents

US Pharmacist. 2012;37(9):HS17-HS20. © 2012  Jobson Publishing

Dyslipidemia is a major risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD), and current guidelines support low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) as a primary target of therapy.^[1] Previous studies suggest that increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and reducing triglycerides and small LDL particles may also have a positive impact in prevention.^[2] These factors are considered secondary targets of lipid management. Most lipid-altering drugs have a sound overall safety profile and are generally well tolerated.^[1]

Episodes of severe hepatotoxicity remain rare for most drugs. The exception is high-dose, sustained-release (SR) niacin. Overall, the incidence of drug-induced hepatotoxicity may be prevented if both providers and patients are aware of potential contributing factors.