title: Therapeutic options for lowering LDL-C in type 2 diabetes: a nurse practitioner's perspective.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The majority of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) have multiple risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is a key therapeutic target to reduce CVD risk. This article reviews therapeutic strategies that nurse practitioners (NPs) may use in the management of patients with T2DM requiring lipid management.
  
  
  METHODS
  The evidence used in developing this review included evidence-based reviews, clinical trials, guidelines, and consensus statements. Relevant publications were identified through a search of the literature using PubMed and other search engines.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Lowering LDL-C levels may reduce CVD risk, but achieving goals can be challenging. Lifestyle modifications (including diet, exercise, and smoking cessation) are key components of lipid management and reduction of CVD risk. Statins can be effective to reduce lipids. However, patients may not achieve lipid goals with monotherapy or may experience intolerable adverse effects. Alternative statins or statins along with other lipid-lowering agents remain good options.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Achieving LDL-C goals requires a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates lifestyle and pharmacologic interventions. Patient commitment in setting goals and self-management is essential. NPs can play an important role in educating patients as well as prescribing appropriate treatments.
authors.affiliation: School of Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut.
authors.forename: Kelley Newlin
authors.initials: KN
authors.lastname: Lew
authors.forename: Daniel J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Kent
authors.forename: Angelica A
authors.initials: AA
authors.lastname: Muñoz
authors.forename: Gail D'Eramo
authors.initials: GD
authors.lastname: Melkus
mesh_terms: D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D008078:Cholesterol, LDL / Q000097:blood*; D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use; D008019:Life Style; D009722:Nurse Practitioners; D024802:Nurse's Role
chemical_list: D008078:Cholesterol, LDL; D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
keywords: Diabetes type 2; lifestyle; low-density lipoprotein cholesterol; pharmacotherapy