Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Does Simvastatin Taken For Cholesterol Lead To Mitochondrial Damage?
I am 76, 6 feet, 150 lbs. Have been taking 20 mg of simvastatin daily. total cholesterol 180, HDL 80, trig 84. Have read recently of mitochondrial damage and statins. Am wondering if I could quit the drug. (No heart disease history, no other drug except Avodart.
Thu, 6 Nov 2014
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic
All medications have the potential to cause adverse effects which may or may not occur.
The potential risks must always be balanced with the benefits.
HDL is the good cholesterol, it is best if it is greater than 60, at 80, yours is good. Your HDL to triglyceride ratio is also good.
Your medication is likely one of the major causes of your good cholesterol values and an increase may occur if it is discontinued.
It would be best to discuss the possibility of discontinuation with your doctor.
I hope this helps
All medications have the potential to cause adverse effects which may or may not occur.
The potential risks must always be balanced with the benefits.
HDL is the good cholesterol, it is best if it is greater than 60, at 80, yours is good. Your HDL to triglyceride ratio is also good.
Your medication is likely one of the major causes of your good cholesterol values and an increase may occur if it is discontinued.
It would be best to discuss the possibility of discontinuation with your doctor.
I hope this helps
I find this answer helpful
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Loading Online Doctors....