A weekly column looking at common treatments
Lipid-lowering drugs and statins
What are they? The blood contains several types of fats, including cholesterol and triglycerides, that are necessary for normal body function but may be damaging if present in excess. The main risk is atherosclerosis, where deposits build up in the arteries, restricting the blood flow. There is also an increased risk of abnormal blood clots developing, leading to potentially fatal disorders such as stroke and heart attack.
What are they good for? These drugs are usually prescribed to control high levels of certain fats in the blood. However, a new study has shown that using statins (a type of lipid-lowering drug) could reduce rates of heart attack and stroke by at least a third. This evidence may result in statins being considered for anybody at an increased risk of heart attack or stroke - regardless of their blood cholesterol concentration.
How do they work? Some drugs act on the liver by altering the way fatty acids are taken into the liver cells or by altering enzyme activity in the liver to prevent the production of lipids. Others work by binding to bile salts in the intestine and so prevent their reabsorption into the bloodstream.
Any contraindications? Drugs that bind to bile salt can limit absorption of some fat-soluble vitamins. Lipid-lowering drugs called fibrates can increase susceptibility to gallstones or upset the balance of fats in the blood. Statins are prescribed with caution in people with reduced kidney or liver function.
Possible side-effects? Some lipid-lowering drugs can increase the amount of bile in the digestive tract causing nausea, diarrhoea or constipation.
Dr Muiris Houston
Alternative remedies: eucalyptus essential oil, good for respiratory problems
What is it? Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree. The essential oil is extracted by steam distillation from the leaves and young twigs. Eucalyptus blue gum and lemon eucalyptus are the two main types of eucalyptus used.
What is it good for? Eucalyptus essential oil is good for clearing respiratory conditions such as sore throats, coughs and bronchitis and viral diseases such as colds and flus.
It is also much valued as an insect repellant. Lemon eucalyptus is used in the treatment of fungal infections such as athlete's foot while eucalyptus blue gum is good for burns, blisters and cuts.
How does it work? Both eucalyptus blue gum and lemon eucalyptus has several properties including analgesic (pain-relieving), antiseptic, anti-viral, expectorant (brings up phlegm form the bronchial tubes) and insecticide.
Any contraindications? Essential oil from the eucalyptus blue gum can only be applied in dilution. It can not be used on young children.
Possible side-effects? Although generally nontoxic and not an irritant, lemon eucalyptus can cause a sensitve reaction in some individuals. If so, discontinue use.
Sylvia Thompson