Q. I have high lipids and a stent in my heart. I have been on Lipitor, Vytorin and now am on Crestor.
While taking Lipitor and Vytorin I always had muscle weakness. Now that I am on Crestor, not only do I have severe muscle weakness, I have cramps in my legs, itching palms and brain fog.
Is there a more natural way to lower lipids? I am getting worried about my liver since I read somewhere that itching palms might signal liver problems.
A. Statin-type drugs lower cholesterol and inflammation that can lead to heart attacks. Since you have a stent, you need to control blood lipids aggressively.
Not everyone tolerates statin medicines like Crestor, Lipitor or Vytorin (which includes simvastatin). Severe muscle pain, weakness or cramping is a red flag. Ask your doctor to test liver enzymes, as itching could be a sign of trouble.
We are sending you our new Guide to Cholesterol Control & Heart Health with more information on the pros and cons of statins as well as many other ways to control blood lipids.
