Some cholesterol drugs can cause liver inflammation, which tends to resolve on its own after patients stop taking the medication. To monitor this and other complications, patients will undergo regular liver function tests and possibly other blood tests.

Some cholesterol drugs can affect the kidneys. Because kidney damage is a common consequence of diabetes, patients are advised to ask their physician about whether their medication can impair their kidney function and whether they should have regular monitoring, such as microalbuminuria testing.

Women taking cholesterol medication should inform their physician at once if they are or plan to become pregnant. Although it has been found that statins do not have a negative effect on female reproductive hormone levels, cholesterol is an important contributor to the development of the fetus. In addition, some cholesterol drugs are excreted in breast milk. Nursing mothers, therefore, should consult with their physician before taking or discontinuing these drugs.

Patients are advised not to abruptly stop taking their medications without first consulting their physician. It is also important that patients notify all physicians (including dentists) that they are taking statins before undergoing any surgical procedure. Patients should inform their physician immediately of any side effects or concerns.

Most patients on medication to treat high cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia) will be taking it for the rest of their lives, provided no serious side effects occur. Patients should remember that medications may control high cholesterol, but they do not cure it. Even if all their symptoms are relieved, patients should continue to take their medication exactly as directed, eat a heart–healthy diet that is low in saturated fats and has little or no artificial trans fats, and keep all scheduled follow-up appointments with their physician.

Cholesterol medications are not meant to serve as a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. People with diabetes are generally advised to eat a diet low in sugar and harmful fats, adequate in monounsaturated and omega-3 fats and protein, and high in fiber-rich vegetables, fruits and whole grains. In addition, they are advised to follow a physician-recommended exercise routine, avoid smoking and limit or avoid alcohol to help maintain normal levels of cholesterol, glucose and blood pressure.