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atorvastatin is it safe

Posted , 4 users are following.

len7
len7

i have been on atorvastatin 20 mg for about 4 years now. i was on simvastatin but i had muscular problems . just lately its all you have been hearing on the news is ther seems to some doubts about statins do the benefiets out weigh the risks and what exactly are the risks , do any one actualy know. ....len 7

1 like, 7 replies

7 Replies

  • derek76
    derek76 len7

    Posted

    If you want to benefit buy shares in drug companies:-)

    Why were you prescribed statins in the first place?

  • marco
    marco len7

    Posted

    There is a lot of stuff about pros and cons on the interweb, then you have to make your own decision. Most medics seem to be pro on the basis that the benefits outweigh the downside.
    • derek76
      derek76 marco

      Posted

      Ask people you know about side effects that they have suffered.

      A very fit friend in his 60's with a highish cholesterol reading but no heart problems has been on several statins and all caused side effects

      including muscle pain, sleeplessness and disturbing dreams.

      When taking atorvastatin he developed Plantar Fasciitis that he did not associate with his medication. He had intensive physio but it took six months to clear after eventually stopping the statin.

      He started taking it again two weeks ago and soon started to get the same pulsating pain in his heel. He will never take statins again

  • Tafia43
    Tafia43 len7

    Posted

    I have seen much research that says the chances a statin will be of benefit are less than 50 to 1 and the chances it wlll damage us in some way are around 5 to 1.

    A recent study said if 1000 people took a statin for five years, just 18 would benefit.

    These figures are for those who have not being diagnosed as having heart disease. Seems those who have had a heart attack or stroke do benefit from taking statins but the benefit does not come from lowering cholesterol.

  • Artist1958
    Artist1958 len7

    Posted

    Hi Len,

    Read "NICE guideline 181" (type that into google and you should find this guidance). NICE is an objective science-driven process, not subject to drug company lobbying etc. It should answer your questions - Atorvastatin 20mg dose is the starting dose for preventing cardiovascular disease (heart attacks/strokes) - your GP should have checked that you do not have a condition/lifestyle issue that might interfere with Atorvastatin.

  • Tafia43
    Tafia43 len7

    Posted

    Was it not reported that several of the members of the committee telling us to take statins have financial links to the drug companies?
    • derek76
      derek76 Tafia43

      Posted

      Is there such a thing as an independent doctor any more. They al have fingers in so many pies and outside earnings..............Even your GP.
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