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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How To Withdraw From Statin Drugs?

I have been on a statin drug for several years now. My doctor insists on it but I don't like what I hear about it. My cholesterol was never very high, just somewhat over 200. I have now lost significant weight and begun a better diet and exercise. I want to get off of this statin. What would you advise?
Thu, 12 Jan 2017
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,

Though the total cholesterol is important, the breakdown, looking at the LDL cholesterol, the HDL and triglyerides are more helpful. The total cholesterol looks at the combination of all of these but since the LDL is the' bad' cholesterol along with triglycerides and the HDL is the 'good ' cholesterol. You can check your lipid levels now since improvement in diet and exercise and see if there is improvement. If you wish for a trial off meds, this can be done with discussion with your doctor. Statins do not need to be stopped slowly, they can just be stopped at any point.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Michelle Gibson James
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How To Withdraw From Statin Drugs?

Hi, Though the total cholesterol is important, the breakdown, looking at the LDL cholesterol, the HDL and triglyerides are more helpful. The total cholesterol looks at the combination of all of these but since the LDL is the bad cholesterol along with triglycerides and the HDL is the good cholesterol. You can check your lipid levels now since improvement in diet and exercise and see if there is improvement. If you wish for a trial off meds, this can be done with discussion with your doctor. Statins do not need to be stopped slowly, they can just be stopped at any point. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Michelle Gibson James