Secondary Hyperlipidemias

Secondary and possibly reversible forms of hyperlipidemia include:

Diabetes Mellitus
Hypothyroidism
Nephrotic Syndrome
Obstructive Liver Disease
Certain Pharmacologic Agents

Agents which can raise LDL or lower HDL levels include: progestins, anabolic steroids, corticosteroids and certain antihypertensive agents such as beta-blockers and diuretics. Beta-blockers without intrinsic sympathomimetic activity (ISA) tend to decrease HDL and raise triglycerides. Thiazide and loop diuretics can cause a modest and sometimes transient rise in LDL (5-10mg/dl). Birth control pills can cause hypertriglyceridemia in some women.


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