After statins

[Bennieblue]

I have been taking a high dose of atrovastatin. It caused a lot of pain and weakness in my muscles to the point of falling in the street. I stopped taking them and feel 90% better. Can I recover the muscle weakness? Walking and doing some exercises on my leg muscles. C.

[Happyrosie]

you can always improve your muscle strength! You are computer literate (otherwise you wouldnt be on here!!) so I suggest you go to utube and search for “Joe Wickes Seniors”. Really good exercises for us wrinklies which you can do at home. Also, going for a walk is beneficial especially in the countryside or parks.

[sandandkev]

Atorvastin has loads side effects,there are different ones,I'm on 3rd lot but others affected my liver and tiredness,my friend was on Atorvastin and had terrible aches so stopped them,they are better taken at night

[Partner20]

One of the most common side-effects of Atorvastatin is muscle problems. I am surprised your GP did not address this early in by changing your statin to something like rosuvastatin which is generally far better tolerated.Good advice from Happyrosie, by the way. Enjoy your walking, which can provide great benefits both physical and psychological. You will find your strength returning gradually, it just takes time.

[Bennieblue in reply to Partner20]

Thank you, I have now seen a third doctor in my surgery, she was great. I am now about to start a low dose of rosuvastatin. Doc asked for a blood test as a base line. Taking one months supply then a review. So pleased to find a doctor with the experience and the will to listen. Your reply was very helpful.

[Partner20 in reply to Bennieblue]

Great news about your new GP! Good ones do exist but are few and far between, unfortunately.I hope you new statin will suit you and that you will now be able to go forward more comfortably and confidently. Wishing you well.

[Turnipgirl in reply to Partner20]

At my surgery there's quite a few nice male GPS who put you at ease and can't do enough for you!

[Qualipop]

Yes you can improve muscles; just build up exercise gradually. I hope you stopped he statins with your GP's knowledge. If you were ona high dose you obviously really need them. If he doesn't know, do go back and tell him . There are plenty of alternatives that don't have that effect.