Originally Posted by
jackb
I'm 77, physically fit, not overweight. My high blood pressure is well controlled with drugs. Normal cholesterol levels. I cycle, hike, walk, ski (both cross country and downhill) eat right and don't drink a lot. Last November I had a stress test that resulted in an angioplasty: 99% blockage in my left anterior descending artery and some blockage of less than 60% in two other spots. I received a stent as well as a prescription for atorvastatin to get my LDL down below 70. Currently it's 18 as a result. I came very close to a heart attack, so I'm not arguing with the cardiologist about prescriptions. He said that keeping my LDL low would benefit me. I believe him. But what is the difficulty with statins? Are there serious adverse side effects? I see that some posters say they can't take statins. Why not? I'm lucky to be alive and have no qualms in following advice from the cardiologist.
The internet can be your friend. Choose your sources carefully, though.
I figure the Mayo Clinic is probably reliable There are side effects, some very serious, but relatively rare.
My sister was put on Lipitor a couple years ago and suffered rapid, severe muscle wasting that left her weak and skeletal-looking for the months it took to recover. A rare side effect to be sure, but potentially a fatal one.