Vol 9, No 6 (2008): Practical Diabetology
Review article
Published online: 2008-12-22
Management of diabetic dyslipidemia - what is new?
Diabetologia Praktyczna 2008;9(6):251-258.
Abstract
Patients with diabetes mellitus or metabolic syndrome
frequently have higher triglicerides, lower HDL
cholesterol and more small dense LDL particles, and
this combination contributes significantly to their
cardiovascular risk. In addition to diet and exercise,
statins remain the primary drugs of choice in patients
with diabetic dyslipidemia. However statin therapy
alone is often insufficient for managing cardiovascular
diseases (CVD) and achieving target goals.
Despite low LDL levels, the residual CVD risk for many
patients is elevated. Low HDL cholesterol levels and
high trigliceryde levels are important contributors
to residual risk. For these patients combination lipid-
modifying therapy may be recommended. Statin
plus fibrate or niacin or omega-3 fatty acids may
be considered. Combined lipid-lowering therapy could
be anticipated to offer additional clinical benefits
in patients with dyslipidemia. Data from prospective
randomised trials are needed to evaluate the
outcome benefits and tolerability of this kind of therapy.
Keywords: atherogenic dyslipidemiaresidual risk of CVDstatinsfibratesniacinomega-3combined lipid therapy