Cholesterol is a fat-like stuff found in the blood and created by the liver. It is also found in animal tissue and present only in food from animal sources, such as whole milk dairy products, meat, fish, poultry, animal organ meat, and egg yolks. If you have higher levels of cholesterol LDL, in your blood you urgently need to reduce cholesterol. You can try dietary restriction and modification and exercise for at least 3 months before you need to start on medications.

Some people may need to start treatment with medication immediately after they are asked to reduce cholesterol by their physicians. These include people with coronary artery diseases, or a history of previous heart attack or stroke or a strong family history of early coronary artery diseases. To reduce cholesterol you may amend your life style and eating habits in addition to the medicine being used. People at low risk do not need to take medication to reduce cholesterol, focus on dietary changes and proper exercise may reduce cholesterol as required. Ask your doctor how you can efficiently reduce cholesterol by modifying your everyday activities and usual diet. There are certain specific prescription medications that may help you to reduce cholesterol swiftly and safely.

They are divided in two groups:

Statins that work by interfering with the cholesterol-producing mechanisms of the liver. These include zocor, lipitor, pravachol and mevacor.

Non statins such as resins acts by preventing bile recycle in the intestine. There are a few brands available of this variety including questran and colestid.