Psyllium in hypercholesterolemia

Abstract

In summary, within a controlled study situation, psyllium seems to be effective in lowering total and LDL cholesterol by 4-8% and 6-13%, respectively. Compared with conventional antilipidemic agents such as lovastatin, which lowers total cholesterol 30%, LDL cholesterol 40%, and triglycerides 20%, the effect of psyllium on lipids is minimal, and its use as a form of drug therapy in patients with moderate-to-severe hypercholesterolemia is not recommended. As an adjunct to AHA step 1 diet therapy, however, psyllium can be useful. The NCEP recently has stressed diet therapy as a first-line primary intervention in patients not a high risk from multiple risk factors or very high LDL cholesterol concentrations. Men ( < or = 45 y) and premenopausal women with no other risk factors and moderately high LDL cholesterol concentrations (4.1-5.7 mmol/l) are at relatively low risk for coronary events in the near future, and would therefore be suitable for diet therapy combined with adjunctive psyllium therapy. Psyllium is well tolerated with minor transient adverse effects (abdominal distention, excessive gas, flatulence) and has a good compliance record ( > or = 90%). It would be a useful adjunct to dietary intervention in low-risk patients with mild-to-moderate hypercholesterolemia. Further research is needed to evaluate psyllium's effect in women and its efficacy in long-term use.