simvastatin

[quinnster]

does anybody have to take this in their vasculitis drug regime

have started on it of recent,and have gone from generally feeling well to feeling sick all the time

are there any alternatives to it ?

also im taking it in a small dose alongside amolodopine,which is generally ok,but a bigger dose is not recommended

any advice would be helpful

thanks

[Albasain]

Talk to your doctor before using simvastatin together with amLODIPine. Combining these medications may significantly increase the blood levels of simvastatin. This can increase the risk of side effects such as liver damage and a rare but serious condition called rhabdomyolysis that involves the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue. In some cases, rhabdomyolysis can cause kidney damage and even death. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications, or your doctor may prescribe alternative medications that do not interact. Let your doctor know immediately if you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness during treatment with simvastatin or similar medications, especially if these symptoms are accompanied by fever or dark colored urine. You should also seek immediate medical attention if you develop fever, chills, joint pain or swelling, unusual bleeding or bruising, skin rash, itching, loss of appetite, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dark colored urine, and/or yellowing of the skin or eyes, as these may be signs and symptoms of liver damage. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

[Ayla Volunteer]

Albasain's reply seems very comprehensive and really helpful, quinnster. I am very impressed by it! I just wanted to add that anyone on statins, or natural alternatives, needs a co enzyme q10 supplement too as the statins will reduce this necessary element in the bloodstream.

I take a natural alternative to statin drugs - plant sterols - which can reduce cholesterol levels by about 10%. Not enough to satisfy most doctors but enough to satisfy me. I am not convinced of the dangers of a high cholesterol level, I would rather look at the dangers of a diet high in sugar, but that is just me!

Ayla

[RichardE Volunteer]

Interesting question (and reply from Albasain).

First off I believe that Statins are one of the most widely prescribed drugs in the UK. Whist (as with any drug) a few people have problems with them they have a proven track record in reducing cholesterol and an evidence base for reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

However having said that, I'm also on Simvastatin and I'm beginning to think I'd like to come off it. I get a general sort of muscle ache and fatigue that I don't think relates to the Vasculitis so I'd like to see if things change without the statin.

In reply to your question quinnster, there are alternatives to Simvastatin but they tend to be more expensive. Atorvastatin is one I was on until my GP practice switched me to Simvastatin. However if you are having problems with a particular type of statin then they should be able to try you with another.

As we always say, have a word with your GP/consultant and tell them what side effects you are experiencing. They may be able to swap you to another type or suggest other ways, as Ayla suggests, to watch the cholesterol level.

Richard.

[braindamage]

My GP suggested i take Simvastatin. When I asked why, she seemed confused. I then reminded her that I was already taking a range of drugs to treat my WG. 'Oh, are you' was the reply?

I'm rapidly losing faith in doctors!

[Hidden]

Hi I started on simvastatin but within a short period woke up with awful pains in my legs and weakness so was changed to atorvastatin and have had no further problems. My GP said she had had quite a few patients who reacted to the cheaper simvastatin in the same way.

[gsmith]

someone told me dark chocolate,one square a day does the same job as statins. not had cause to try it yet as my colestrol is fine