HBP meds(Beta Blocker) and High Cholesterol

Laura22 · 05-13-2004, 05:35 PM

I just went off atenolol after being on if for almost 1 year, and was placed on vasotec. My bp after 2 weeks of being on vasotec was 112/72. I was very happy.
My Dr. gave me some blood work, and my total cholesterol was 226 and LDL was 151 and HDL was 40. He is concerned about the high LDL. I never ever had a problem with high cholesterol before. Is it possibe that the meds I was on caused it?

Random2 · 05-13-2004, 05:40 PM

I wouldn't be surprised. Are you in the same shape as before the beta-blocker brigade???? Get the HDL's up & the try's down & the cholesterol will follow. I'm convinced that betas have increased my glucose on altenolol, because it was never that high before.

Aren't B/P meds great!!!

zuzu8 · 05-14-2004, 04:10 AM

Laura,

Yes, it's possible the Atenolol caused your cholesterol increase. Beta blockers and diuretics can often increase lipids and cholesterol levels. Why doesn't your doctor know this stuff? Not just your doc but so many of'em. It boggles the mind.

Alpha1 blockers actually have beneficial effects on lipid profiles.

ACE inhibitors (like VASOTEC) and calcium channel blockers do not have an adverse effect on lipids and cholesterol. They are virtually neutral in this regard.

Wait a few months and get another lipid panel done. Bet it'll be much better.

zuzu xx

zip2play · 05-14-2004, 09:37 AM

Laura,

Don't worry; you won't be on Vasotec (enalapril) very long.
It controls BP VERY well but it is perhaps the worst of the ACE blockers in inducing a constant cough. I'm surprised it hasn't hit you yet?

Get the HDL's up with fish oils and the LDL down somewhat with elimination of trans fats and cutting back on saturated fats.