Statins and IBS C

[Rozzy46]

Hello

I'm 76 and have had IBS C for 15 years. Recently I've been doing better which I attribute in part to the Nerva App and which I think is worth trying. However, I have now been prescribed statins for my ever increasing cholesterol and I see that one possible side effect is muscle cramps and constipation which is the last thing I need! I just wondered if anyone else takes statins and if so do they notice any effect on their IBS?

I've learnt a lot from this group and am extremely grateful for everyone's input and kindness. It's incredibly helpful to know one isn't alone with this dispiriting condition.

[b1b1b1]

I take simvastatin. Sometimes you have to try several to find one that does not cause muscle problems. Also, my doctor recommends taking Coq 10 daily along with the statin. I had constipation issues before I started the statin, so I am not sure if it got worse or not. They do, however, really lower the cholesterol numbers.

[Rozzy46 in reply to b1b1b1]

Thank you so much - I'll take Coq 10 as you suggest. Do you take them at the same time?

[b1b1b1 in reply to Rozzy46]

Yes I do take them together. It's quite enjoyable to see the cholesterol numbers really drop.

[winfong]

I've taken statins for years, several different kinds. Never had any problems - other than those I had already. None of my many docs mentioned anything about it either.

I take more than a dozen meds. I'd say half of them probably mention something bowel-related. My feeling is that this is always to cover their a***s rather than a side effect that everyone can truly count on.

Give it a try. If you do experience issues, I'm sure your doc will work with you to find another one.

[modbury]

Hi I have IBS, mixed but mostly D , IV been taken statins for years , and can't say IV noticed it affecting me , apart from lowering my cholesterol, hope your ok with your,s

[Gypsy67]

I too have been prescribed statins about a month ago but I have IBS-D and have noticed it has helped my IBS symptoms which is a bonus for me but will follow to see what it does for your IBS-C issues.

[Rozzy46]

Thank you so much - I'm really pleased that statins have helped your IBS symptoms and that it will have the right effect! Do you have to have regular blood tests to monitor how effective it is?

[b1b1b1 in reply to Rozzy46]

I think initially I had blood tests every 3 months for the first 6 months, but then less frequently.

[Nat68]

Hi RozzyI have IBS and chronic constipation since childhood. Ive started statin last summer. My symptoms have not changed regarding the constipation and I have no joint pains.

I hope this helps.🙂

[Dollymae06 in reply to Nat68]

Hi what statins do you take I've tried Atorvastatin and Rosuvastatin but I get muscle pain. I do also have Fibromyalgia so that doesn't help.x

[Nat68 in reply to Dollymae06]

Hi I take Rosuvastatin. My 24 years old daughter has Fibromyalgia and also takes statin 20mg for years now. Ill ask her which one she takes. She had issues with joint pains and tried different statins. Ill let you know 🙂

[dubstepMaul]

I have been on simvastatin for several years with no side effects. Reduced my cholesterol so it's a thumbs up.