What is a preferred treatment for hyperlipidemia?

Atorvastatin is widely recognized as a first-line treatment for hyperlipidemia, particularly for individuals with elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. This medication belongs to the statin class, which works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase. This enzyme plays a crucial role in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway in the liver. By blocking this enzyme, atorvastatin effectively lowers LDL cholesterol levels, reduces cardiovascular risk, and may also have beneficial effects on triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels.

While niacin, ezetimibe, and gemfibrozil also have roles in managing lipid levels, they are generally not considered first-line treatments. Niacin primarily serves to raise HDL cholesterol levels and lower triglycerides, but it can have side effects that limit its use in some patients. Ezetimibe works by reducing intestinal absorption of cholesterol, often used in conjunction with statins, but is typically not effective as a standalone therapy. Gemfibrozil is used mainly for lowering triglycerides and increasing HDL levels, but it is less effective than statins in lowering LDL cholesterol.

Due to the efficacy of atorvastatin in managing hyperlipidemia and its established benefits