Policosanol Information
Policosanol is a drug made from a chemical in sugar cane. It is used to treat a variety of heart and cholesterol-related health conditions, according to Web MD.
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Benefits
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Policosanol blocks the body's ability to oxidize a substance called low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, that causes swelling and damages the blood vessels. It stops arterial lesions from forming and decreases the amount of cholesterol in the blood.
Considerations
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Researchers do not agree about the effectiveness of policosanol in lowering cholesterol, according to Web MD. The website points out the fact that all of the studies pointing to the effectiveness of the drug were conducted in Cuba, where the sugar cane is grown. Studies conducted outside of Cuba did not find any significant cholesterol-lowering benefits as of 2010.
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Side Effects
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Some people are allergic to this drug. The symptoms of an allergic reaction are are headache, dizziness and inflammation of the inside of the nose. Patients may also experience breathing problems, nervousness and hives.
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