At the time of my first heart attack my total cholesterol was 180, but higher LDL than HDL (not desirable). Started statins (Vytoren) and my total cholesterol was lowered to 95, but still higher LDL. Added Niaspan and the ratio of LDLHDL improved. I now take generic lipitor and total cholesterol hovers in the 100-115 range with good ratios. Simvastatin did not have the same results of lowering total C., Crestor worked but is expensive, and for now I am sticking with generic lipitor and Niaspan. Before the second heart attack my total C. was less than 100, I was exercising every day, I just had a stress test that showed I was in the top 1% for folks my age range and I still ended up in surgery with more stents ............ sometimes you just can't outlive your genetics.