A Patient Who Recently Started Therapy with an HMG-COA Reductase

question 7

Multiple Choice

A patient who recently started therapy with an HMG-COA reductase inhibitor asks the nurse, "How long will it take until I see an effect on my LDL cholesterol?" The nurse gives which correct answer?

• A) "At least 6 months is required to see a change."
• B) "A reduction usually is seen within 2 weeks."
• C) "Blood levels normalize immediately after the drug is started."
• D) "Cholesterol will not be affected, but triglycerides will fall within the first week."

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Definitions:

Pb

The chemical symbol for lead, a dense, toxic metal used in various applications.

Echoencephalography

A non-invasive ultrasound technique used to study the brain's structures through the skull, particularly useful for detecting abnormalities.

Ultrasound

A diagnostic imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of structures within the body.

Intracranial Structures

Structures located within the cranium, including the brain, blood vessels, cranial nerves, and cerebrospinal fluid.