An increase in plasma cholesterol independent of thyroid function during long-term amiodarone therapy: a dose-dependent relationship

Article Abstract:

Amiodarone is an antiarrhythmic drug with a number of clinically significant side effects. Among these are an increase in serum cholesterol and thyroid dysfunction. Hypothyroidism is associated with high serum cholesterol levels (hypercholesterolemia), and a hypothesis was advanced that the hypothyroid effects of amiodarone are responsible for the hypercholesterolemia. Twenty-three patients with arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm) and normal thyroid function began the study. The subjects had their serum cholesterol levels followed over the course of treatment with amiodarone. Sixteen patients were available for follow-up at one year; five were available for follow-up at 30 months. Out of the total group, two patients were noncompliant and six patients did not survive. Analysis of the results showed that the cumulative dose, rather than the daily dose of amiodarone, was directly related to serum cholesterol levels. The percentage of patients with clinically significant hypercholesterolemia increased from 30 to 69 percent after two years of amiodarone treatment. This was independent from thyroid abnormalities. Because some patients with arrhythmias who receive amiodarone may be quite young, hypercholesterolemia and its attendant coronary artery disease risks are important side effects to monitor. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Evaluation, Causes of, Complications and side effects, Drug therapy, Hypothyroidism, Arrhythmia, Amiodarone, Hypercholesterolemia

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Cholesterol and violence: is there a connection?

Article Abstract:

There seems to be a clear link between low blood cholesterol levels and a violent death, but the mechanism is unclear. A physician reviewed 32 studies on this link, some of which studied people who had committed suicide. Most of the studies confirmed that people with low cholesterol levels were more likely to commit suicide or be killed in some other violent fashion. Animal studies show increased aggression in monkeys on low-cholesterol diets. Some studies of animals and humans suggest that low cholesterol levels may affect serotonin levels in the brain, which could affect behavior.

Psychological aspects, Risk factors, Suicide, Blood cholesterol, Violence

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