What natural alternatives are as effective as lipitor?

What natural alternatives exist for lowering cholesterol like Lipitor does?

Lipitor (atorvastatin) belongs to a class of drugs called statins. It works by blocking an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase, which reduces the amount of cholesterol your liver makes. This process is hard to replicate exactly with natural products.

What substances show cholesterol-lowering effects in studies?

Red yeast rice contains monacolin K, a compound chemically identical to lovastatin, the statin in older versions of Lipitor. Studies show it can lower LDL cholesterol by 15–25%. However, the FDA has warned against its use because it may contain unregulated amounts of lovastatin and carry the same muscle and liver risks as prescription statins. [1]

Plant sterols and stanols are substances found in plants. They can small amounts reduce LDL by 8–15% when taken daily in fortified foods or supplements. They work by blocking intestinal absorption of cholesterol. Many margarines and spreads contain these.

What other options do people ask about?

Fiber supplements such as psyllium (Metamucil) work by binding bile acids in the heart. They can sencondaryly reduce LDL by 5–10%. Some patients use this when mild elevation occurs or when they want eine Ergänzung to prescription treatment.

Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil or algal oil primarily lower triglycerides rather than LDL. They are useful in patients who have elevated triglycerides along with cholesterol.

When does patent protection affect availability of alternatives?

Lipitor's patent expired in 2011. Since then, generic atorvastatin has been made available worldwide. [2]