[Treatment of dyslipidemia in clinical practice]

The incidence of dyslipidemia is rising worldwide. Dyslipidemia combined with other factors represent the primary risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases. The National Cholesterol Education Program has recently updated the Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines and called for more intensive lipid lowering treatment, especially in patients at high risk for coronary heart disease. A statin and fibrate combination is a possible approach, moreover, niacin, particularly in combination with statins, might have a successful comeback. However, despite the existence of evidence-based treatment guidelines and effective antilipemic medications, recommended cardiovascular risk reduction rarely is achieved. This article summarises the mechanisms of action of available lipid lowering agents, their recommended dosing regiments and possible drug interactions.