The Evaluation of Integration of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine for the Treatment of Hyperlipidemia

Abstract

This study explores the effectiveness and clinical application of combining traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Western medicine (WM) in treating hyperlipidemia. Hyperlipidemia refers to elevated total cholesterol, triglycerides, or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the blood, or decreased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, leading to increased risks of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. Western medical treatment primarily relies on statins, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, and PCSK9 inhibitors, but these therapies have limited efficacy and cause various side effects. In TCM, hyperlipidemia is categorized as conditions such as "phlegm syndrome," "deficiency damage," and "chest obstruction," with different prescriptions used based on syndrome differentiation. Research has shown that combining TCM and WM produces better clinical outcomes than using WM alone, enhancing lipid-lowering effects while reducing side effects and improving patient satisfaction. However, the potential side effects of TCM and the optimal combination treatment plans for different patient types remain unclear. Future research will focus on identifying the most suitable combination of TCM and WM for different patients, aiming to optimize personalized treatment for hyperlipidemia. This study provides a theoretical basis for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of hyperlipidemia and promotes the further integration of TCM and WM in medical practice.