Statins
Reduce the cholesterol the body makes, lowering blood lipid levels.
Why it gets prescribed
Prescribed on the basis of overall cardiovascular risk, not on a single lipid number.
What to watch for
Lipids and sometimes liver enzymes. New muscle pain, especially if severe or with dark urine, must be reported promptly.
Stopping — read this before you stop anything
Do not stop because of something read online. If there is a side effect, report it — there is usually a way forward short of stopping altogether.
Tell the prescriber and the pharmacist
Grapefruit affects some types. Also mention antibiotics or antifungals, as some interact.
Worth asking
- Why was this prescribed for me — what is my risk level
- What kind of muscle pain should I report
- When are lipids rechecked