Cholesterol & Statin Drugs – Are they a good idea to take?
As with taking any other drug, statin medications used to treat high cholesterol are not without the potential for side effects. So what potential side effects might you have when you begin or continue to take statin drugs? Side effects are listed below:
- respiratory congestion
- nausea
- abdominal pain
- diarrhea
- skin rash
- constipation
- increased gas
- dizziness
- drug interactions with other medications, so always speak to your pharmacist about potential interactions
- muscle aches and joint pains
The two most serious side effects of using statins include:
- Rhabdomyolysis – This is rare, but can be fatal if not recognized. This involves your muscle cels breaking down, and a protein gets sent out into the bloodstream. This protein can damage your kidneys and result in kidney failure. The risk of this happening increases when using other cholesterol-lowering drugs, or even antibiotics such as erythromycin or antifungals. The risk of rhabdomyolysis is also increased for the elderly and people who are on higher doses of statins. So if you are on statins, and you have new muscle aches and pains, be sure to consult your physician immediately.
- Liver Damage – It is important to have your liver enzymes checked from time to time if you are using statin medications. This is because some people who use statin drugs can end up with liver damage that is permanent. It is important to note that you may not have any symptoms that liver damage is occurring until it is too late.
As with any other medication, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. The need for statin medications may be reduced or eliminated altogether if you make lifestyle changes such as losing weight and quitting smoking, for example. There are also quality natural alternatives available to consider if you feel that risks of taking statin drugs outweigh the benefits. Discuss these natural alternatives, in addition to making lifestyle changes, with your doctor. I suggest these particular supplements as they are made by a quality company, who has done the research behind their products. If, after talking to your doctor, you decide to use a statin drug, consider supplementing with Coenzyme Q-10. My next post will provide you more information on why this is suggested.
