Nonpharmacologic Approaches for the Treatment of Hyperlipidemia

Abstract

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death in the United States. Dyslipidemias, like decreased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and increased low-density lipoprotein (LDL), have been linked through epidemiologic and experimental studies with the development of atherosclerosis and an increased risk of CHD. The introduction of various classes of lipid-lowering drugs, especially the hydroxymethylglutaryl-coenzyme-A-reductase inhibitors (statins), has allowed for effective treatment of hyperlipidemia. This article reviews the following nonpharmacologic approaches to hyperlipidemia: LDL apheresis, surgery, the emergence of HDL as a therapeutic target, gene therapy, and finally, the possibility of developing a vaccine against atherosclerosis.

LDL-apheresis therapy

“…• LDL-apheresis is one of a number of nonpharmacologic approaches to treat hyperlipidemia [36]. Liver transplantation is another approach because it can provide normal LDL receptors and lead to a significant lowering of LDLC.…”