Treating mixed dyslipidemias: why and how.

Patients with only mildly elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol values but low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and/or high triglyceride levels are at high risk for cardiovascular disease. 3-Hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (also known as statins) have been shown to slow coronary heart disease (CHD) progression, reduce CHD events in patients with low HDL-C levels, and raise HDL-C concentrations in patients with mixed dyslipidemias. Some, but not all trials of fibrates have shown benefit in patients with low HDL-C levels. Combination therapy with a statin plus either a fibrate or niacin is effective in improving the entire lipid profile, but may increase cost and side effects.