Adverse Effects of Antihyperlipidemia Agents

Most of the drugs used to treat hyperlipidemia are well tolerated. Some gastrointestinal distress (nausea, diarrhea) is common with most of the drugs, but these problems are usually minor and do not require the discontinuation of drug therapy. 

Other bothersome side effects are related to specific agents. Niacin, for instance, is often associated with cutaneous vasodilation and a sensation of warmth when doses are administered, but administering an extended-release form of this drug can reduce these sensations.71 99 Some fairly serious problems, including liver dysfunction, gallstones, and pancreatitis, can occur with many antihyperlipidemia drugs, but the incidence of these side effects is rare. Cardiovascular problems such as arrhythmias, blood dyscrasias, and angioneurotic syndrome may also occur with fibric acids. 

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