Understanding Antihyperlipidemic Drugs

This comprehensive CE course is tailored for nursing professionals seeking a deeper understanding of the pharmacological management of dyslipidemia. The course provides clinically relevant, evidence-based instruction on the use, mechanisms, and safety considerations of antihyperlipidemic drugs, with an emphasis on optimizing cardiovascular risk reduction in diverse patient populations.

Content includes an overview of lipid metabolism and the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis, followed by a detailed examination of major classes of lipid-lowering agents, statins, fibrates, bile acid sequestrants, niacin, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, PCSK9 inhibitors, and omega-3 fatty acids. The course highlights each agent’s mechanism of action, indications, contraindications, side effect profiles, and monitoring parameters.

Through real-world case scenarios, participants will apply clinical decision-making principles to select and adjust therapy based on individual risk factors, treatment goals, and tolerability. Emphasis is placed on patient education, adherence strategies, and managing adverse effects such as statin-associated muscle symptoms and hepatotoxicity.

Learning Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Describe the pathophysiology of lipid disorders and their role in cardiovascular disease.
• Differentiate between the pharmacologic classes of antihyperlipidemic agents and their mechanisms of action.
• Identify appropriate therapeutic choices based on lipid panel results and patient-specific factors.
• Recognize potential adverse effects, drug interactions, and necessary laboratory monitoring.
• Apply evidence-based guidelines to the initiation and adjustment of lipid-lowering therapy.
• Educate patients on the importance of adherence, lifestyle modifications, and follow-up care.

Course Completion Requirements:

To complete this CE course and receive full credit, participants must:

• Register for the course.
• Review all course materials.
• Complete the post-test with a passing score of 70% or higher.
• Submit a completed course evaluation.

Note: Some courses may include additional assignments or clinical case reviews

Important Disclosures:

• Conflict of Interest: The course planners, authors, and presenters have no financial or commercial conflicts of interest related to this educational activity.
• Commercial Support: This course has not received sponsorship or financial support from commercial entities.
• Non-Endorsement: Approval of this course as a continuing education activity does not imply endorsement of any products, services, or companies mentioned within the content.
• Off-Label Product Use: Any discussion of off-label medication use is clearly identified and supported by available evidence.