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Please note that any comments expressed in these forum posts do not reflect the opinions of Medical News Today in any way at all. Opinions posted in this forum do not constitute medical
advice, which should be sought from qualified medical advisers. Disclaimer.
Statin drugs
posted by Jeanne on 30 Apr 2005 at 2:59 amI personally would never take another statin drug.I took statins for a few years, which caused terrible muscle problems, in my neck, back and legs. Due to that I still have problems with muscle spasms in those areas.These are terrible drugs, I have learned of many people having this same problem, these drugs need to be taken off the market!!!! FAST!!!!
Statin drugs
posted by Dawn Wolf on 01 May 2005 at 9:22 pm
I had the same muscle pains. It takes months and sometimes years to get rid of them. But then your cholesterol gets so high you have to do something.
Statin Drugs
posted by Jeanne on 03 May 2005 at 3:42 am
Dawn
I know people who are in wheelchairs due to this drug. Never take again. Control cholesterol with diet and supplements, there is less risk involved, I make no medical views, just an opinion. I will never take another statin drug, take my chances with cholesterol, I take a lot of amino acids, do not eat breads, watch out for trans fars and take omega. What did they do before they heard of cholesterol??This is a scam by drug companies.
The truth
posted by Ruth on 24 Feb 2006 at 8:05 pm
My father had an increase in his Lipitor in August,2004. In September a 79 year old man who played golf once a week and bowled twice a week started to become severly dehabilited. He gradually was loosing all feeling in his hands and feet and had severe muscle pain. By January he could hardly walk with a walker. He had several workups with the "experts" in his home town as well as a complete evaluation with a nationally known hospital...no one had any answers other than "he is old". I continued to search the computer looking for answers and finally found many sites talking about nueropathy and statins. I called my fathers doctor and he decided to humor me by taking my father off the drugs temporarily. His comment was "all that I had read is not proven." It took a whole year but my father now walks without a walker and is gaining back some feeling in his hands. I just received a call telling me that the Dr. wanted to give another statin to my father...I was completely shocked! I called said Dr. and asked, why after my father went though a hellish year and now was tremendously improved did he want to put him on statins again. Well, if you can believe this, he thought he was on satins all along except for the six week "experiment". I thank my God that my fathers Dr. is completely irresponsible and kept no accurate records of what my medications my father was actually taking otherwise he would probably be dead.
Dangers Of Statin Drugs
posted by ed larkin on 15 Jan 2007 at 10:38 am
I took Lipitor for 5 years and it reduced my cholesterol from 325 to under 200. Fortunately I quit taking Lipitor before any more damage was done to my body.
I had serious problems that my Doctor blamed on other things. He was dead wrong and I really beleive I ciuld be dead if I didn"t quit taking it on my own.
Statins are very dangerous drugs because most people that take them are likely over 50 years old and confuse the side effects of Statin drugs with normal aging and todays Doctors do not pay enough attention to what the causes are for the patient's symptoms. I am 65 yrs. old and have discussed my side effects with a number of friends and found that they had some of the same problems that I did . Since I quit taking any statin drug my cholesterol is elevated but all of the symptoms,muscle and joint pain,blurred vision, hair loss and exercise intolerence are gone. I briefly tried another less potent statin but began having the same side effects as Lipitor.
I Need Your Opinions On Statins!
posted by Lucy Atkins on 29 Jan 2007 at 3:00 am
I'm writing an article for the Guardian newspaper (UK) about why people do not take statins (and other drugs) and I am VERY interested in your opinions here - would anyone be willing to talk to me - email is fine, anonymity is also fine. I just need honest opinions on why you stopped taking the drugs. There seems to be a sense among many docs that people do not take these drugs out of ineptitude (ie. "no good reason"). judging from your comments there are MANy good reasons. I'm in a rush though! lucy@lucyatkins.com
Statin Drugs
posted by Cara Bride on 05 Oct 2007 at 7:29 pm
The hair loss issue has caught my attention as I've noticed this to a great degree since taking statins (and quitting for about 3 months now). I now have areas around my temples that look like small but noticeable alopecia patches thankfully beginning to show slow regrowth but I never had any problem like this before taking the statin drugs.
Also my nails, which were incredibly healthy my whole life, to the point that I had to cut them they grew so quickly, now are finally starting to recover after months of shredding and splitting so badly that I had to keep them clipped very short.
Don't know if anyone thinks this embarrassing symptom is related, but I noticed that my urine smelled like there was a campfire burning somewhere very close by! The only variable in all of these things was the statin prescription drug that I was taking. I have a wonderful family doctor who is very open to listening, but feels that the cholesterol "risk" is a valid one with my family history. I don't blame him for his stance that the statins have proven efficacy in lowering cholesterol but at what cost? By not taking them, I think I have a 50/50 chance that a heart attack won't kill me, but if I take them, I now know what a terrible toll these drugs will have in other areas. I think I'll take my chances.
Hair Loss
posted by janny on 27 Aug 2008 at 2:25 pm
Since starting Lipitor 4 months ago I am losing my hair , have dry skin, itching, and sore and dry lips. Hae now discontinued it and am waiting to see results. Although my ldl plummeted to 60 from 170, I will take my chances.
Statins And Hair Loss
posted by chris Richards on 24 Sept 2008 at 11:41 am
I started taking Lipitor and within several weeks I began losing hair by the handfuls. I took myself off the Lipitor and it stopped. This drug also caused constant muscle aches. The doctor then had me start Zocor, within about 8 months, the hair loss started again. I stopped and the hair loss stopped.
Next, they put me on Crestor which I took for about 2 years before the hair loss began. Now, I have been on Pravastatin for about a year and the hair loss has started again.
When I ask the doctors about statins and hair loss, they make me feel that I am imagining this and they can't believe the drug causes this. I was so frustrated, I went to a dermatologist, who told me that it would take 5 years for my hair to grow back in and could give me no answers either.
Is it possible that statins react with other drugs to cause this? With me it seems to be a build up of the drug over time that causes the hair loss. It is frightening to be sitting and actually watch your hair drop out as you are sitting at a computer or wash your hair and see the handfuls that come out when combing. Does anyone have any solutions - could a blood test or hair strand test give some answers? I'm desperate.
Statin Drugs Are So Dangerous
posted by Jerry on 19 Feb 2009 at 8:45 am
I have been on statins for several years. I noticed many side effects. Horrible joint pain. So much pain in hands, and fingers locking. Dr. Diagnosed Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Had to use wrist splints. Had great difficulty walking, or getting out of the car. Neuropathy significantly increased. Had significant muscle weakness and spasms. Legs would move when in a recliner, sometimes violently. Skin rashes, memory loss. I felt like I was dying. Read about the side effects of the statin I was taking. Quit for three weeks, noticed considerable improvement. Went back to the Dr. Told her about the side effects and that I had quit the statin. She prescribed me another one. In 3 weeks all of my symptoms came back. I have another appointment in 3 days, and I will tell her "No more statins"
I'm 60 years old and have been very active. Now, I feel so weak, I do not want to answer the door. Walking is very tiresome. Hands hurt all of the time. I work on a computer all day, and can't afford the carpal tunnel type symptoms again. My joints are very stiff and I am having trouble just typing this. Better to die of a heart attack than to have a slow death like this.
I Just Quit Yesterday
posted by anon on 29 Apr 2009 at 6:57 am
I am a 61 yr old woman and two years ago did not have a pain in my body and had unlimited energy. My doctor has had me on various drugs including Lipitor. I was on the lowest dose, 10 mg and still my side effects made me feel like a decrepit old woman of 110.
My bad cholesterol went from 248 to 164 but it is not worth the loss of quality of life that I have had to endure. I plan on trying herb therapy. The stuff is poison. My husband was on it 9 years but did not connect the dots to all of his many devastating side effects.
Sickofit
posted by Diane on 08 May 2009 at 8:18 am
I have been on statin drugs for almost two years along with thyroid medication starting at the same time. Within three weeks I was hospitalized with chest pain, palpatations and had a heart catherization done. No abnormalities. Since then I have had severe muscle problems, can no longer lift weights as I was in a 5 day a week gym routine.
Now I just walk the dog 4-5 times a week as I am too tired to continue. I have mind fog, forgetfulness, etc. After today I am quitting my medication. Doctors don't care and aren't qualified enough. They bow to the pharmaceutical companies, as do the politicians. Government backed drug pushers!!
Lipitor And Muscle Pain Etc
posted by Deborah on 24 Jun 2009 at 8:05 pm
At my doctors constant pressure I went on Zocor, because my cholesterol was or is very high, high tris to. I'm told because of family heredity. Anyway 1 mo. into the Zocor I broke out in severe itchy spots all over my body. It was a side effect I was allergic, so she put me on Lipitor, I didnt want to, but THE PRESSURE FROM THE DOC AGAIN.
After three weeks I woke up with severe back neck and hip pain, thinking my back was just out I went to my chiropractor, who said it was muscular. After researching statins and finding tons of my complaints due to statins I stopped taking them, for good, the doctor can kiss my ass. I'm 46 female exercise all the time eat healthy, but while on lipitor I felt like I was 90 yrs old, tired achy. and itchy.
By the way I asked my chiropractor his opinion since he sees lots of people with aches and pains if he saw a clue going on here, and yes he did a lot. He said if it were him he wouldn't take a drug where you have to get your liver checked a lot. GOOD POINT.
Statins
posted by Robert on 21 Aug 2009 at 7:17 pm
I have been on various statins, Lipitor, Vytorin, Samvastatin (Zorcor) for years....then a doctor put me on LOVAZA, which is prescription fish oil esthers. That brought my triglicerides down immediately as well as my chlorestoral to the point of nearly ZERO! Oh WOW, my cardiologist took me off the Zorcor completely. Right now I am taking only the fish oil....BUT before he did that I, after all these years, began to lose my hair. Now, granted I am 72.....but had a full hair of white healthy hair! I will NEVER take another statin drug and if that kills me then fine....I have had the leg cramps and neck cramps and now hair loss and lack of my normal energy. This is a case of the "cure" being worse than the "disease."
Statins
posted by Sheri on 31 Aug 2009 at 6:03 am
I never thought that all of these little symptoms were all related to the statin that I have been taking. I've been on Crestor for a while and before that, Zocor. But I went to the hairdresser this weekend and asked about my hair loss....I am only 47 and used to have very thick hair. She suggested that I research my cholesterol medicine....what a SHOCK. I've had increased joint pain, memory fog, and a constant lethargic feeling. My kids ask me why I am tired all the time. I've had weight gain in the past 4 years (over 100 lbs) that I can't seem to shake. I've taken myself off of the statins until my next dr's visit to see what happens. If the statins are the cause of all or most of these symptoms, then I'll take my chances without them.
Pain And Cramping In My Legs
posted by Al on 29 Jan 2010 at 3:11 am
Well what I did not know about Lipitor and all the other statins, is that my doctor did not tell that the problems and side effects last a life time. After taking Lipitor for 3 to 4 years I develop serious leg cramping and pain I can't stand long take a long distance drive or as it was, I use to be field tech driving a lot of miles to not being able to do it! Because of so much discomfort. And to day I still have problem having need to crack my legs or for relief. I hope some understands. My cholesterol is high but God is good!
Peace AL Rilley
Side Effect Of Statins
posted by Dr.L.S.dashora on 30 Apr 2010 at 12:42 am
Having taken statins for three years at the age of 60 witnessed muscle weakness lassitude, lethargy and effect on memory (loss) and development of characteristic Muercke Lines of all the fingernails of hand. Also growing hairfall (alopecia)
Don't Know What To Do "Statin Drug"
posted by JAMES W. SMITH on 14 May 2010 at 7:26 am
I am 61, and I am on crestor for 2 years I cannot walk one block my legs kill me.
Instant Health Problem With Statin
posted by R. S. Hoffmann on 04 July 2010 at 8:01 pm
I was given a prescription for a Statin and took the pills for a little over three weeks before stopping. In that short time, I was:
- hospitalized with pneumonia
- experienced sudden memory problems
- developed skin problem
- and my hair began to thin
There is probably other adverse affects, but I can't remember! This drug does not belong on the market.
Hair Loss At The Age Of 30
posted by George K on 31 July 2010 at 7:52 am
I've had high cholesterol(7.0-8.0) since my late teens. Now at 30 my doctor convinced me begin treating it with Crestor 5mg. He convinced me that although I may experience some did effects, in the long run the benefits will out weigh the risks. Within a year of taking the drug I have have lost considerable amounts of hair on my temple where I didnt have any noticeable hair loss before and general thinning all over. I have my father hair line and he only began to lose hair in his late 40s in the same areas. I do believe due to the speed and timing of the hair loss the drugs have had a serious effect in accelerating my hair loss. Not sure what to due next but definitely reconsidering continuing the treatment. Do statins really reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease due to atherosclerosis.
Natural Statin, Red Yeast Rice Supplement, Also A Problem
posted by Lost Hair with Natural Statin on 09 Sept 2010 at 1:41 pm
I’ve been taking red yeast rice supplement (in essence, it is a statin) and it does lower my cholesterol. I started taking RYR sparingly about 2.5 years ago, only one capsule every two to three days. My hair started thinning but I never made the connection. I went to my GP, dermatologists and endocrinologists about my hair loss but they weren’t of any help. This year I started taking RYR daily and then went to two 600 mg. capsules a day since a friend’s doctor told her that dosage.
After about 6 weeks my hair fell out in gobs after my showers for about 4 days. I’ve now stopped taking RYR! I have the thinning hair up front and at my temples (small areas of alopecia). I couldn’t figure out why my nails were becoming brittle and thin also. I had been trying to avoid taking any prescription statin which my GP has been pushing for me to do for years since my cholesterol level was in the 240s but which would go down whenever I took more of the RYR. My doctor wanted the magic lower-than-200 total cholesterol number despite the fact that I had HDL in the 60s or 70s and a low C-reactive-protein number.
Since RYR is not regulated by the FDA, there’s no telling how different one brand is compared to the next. The brand I took did lower my cholesterol but what a price to pay in regards to a woman’s hair!
After reading all the information on this forum, I realize that it’s very possible that the red yeast rice, like a statin, was the cause of my hair loss which I’m really hoping will grow back. For anyone who’s had problems with prescription statins and thinking that a herbal supplement might be safer, be forewarned!
Hair Loss At 35
posted by Dave on 10 Sept 2010 at 7:42 am
I'm 35, have been on Lipitor for a number of years. I've had a number of the side effects like muscle aches, fatigue, chest pain... but just put up with it. Until now I've always had thick hair but just started noticing the top and front thinning significantly. I believe it is the Lipitor. My dad, 59, had also been on Lipitor for a while. He went through the same issues, only his hair loss began more quickly and aggressively. My mom was convinced it was the Lipitor as well so he stopped it. I'm going to do the same. I talked with my doctor and she wants me to switch to Pravachol, but I found a study that again calls out hair loss as a side effect. This side effect seems to be an issue with all statin drugs.
I no longer have the reference, but I came across a bit of info via Google that talked about the role of cholesterol and hair growth. It seems there is a very precise cholesterol level in hair follicles for maintaining healthy hair. The level is so precise that it talked about testing hair rather than blood to check cholesterol levels. The bottom line is that I think I'm going to do the same as many of the other posters; stop the drug, use diet, supplements and exercise to maintain cholesterol levels and let God control the rest.
Hair Loss With Simvastatin
posted by Marsha on 14 Sept 2010 at 11:24 am
I am 66 years old. I appreciate reading everyone's comments on the statin drugs, and I've decided today to quit taking Simvastatin. I've been on this drug since June, and my otherwise thick hair (I used to have it professionally THINNED every six weeks) is falling out. There is hair all over my house, my car, my cooking, and my clothes. Did Simvastatin lower my cholesterol? Yes it did. But I've also changed my lifestyle eating a low-fat diet and getting regular exercise. I've had occasional headaches and dizziness, and after reading everyone's opinions, I am not willing to take this drug longer and wonder if I'm going to suffer any other side effects. I am hopeful that I can manage my diet and lifestyle so that my cholesterol levels (which may rise after cessation of the drug) will stay within reasonable healthy parameters. And, from what I've read, I expect the hair loss to cease once I've been off the drug.
Too Many Symptoms--too Little Information
posted by Claire on 16 Sept 2010 at 7:15 am
I've been taking Zocor since 2006. At the advice of a friend, I started researching the possible side effects (all of which have been reported and verified). A number of the effects I'd never seen acknowledged before. I was stunned by the number of problems I've been dealing with in the last 4 years that can have a Zocor connection: weakness, serious short memory loss, occasional difficulty speaking, hyperhydrosis, dehydration, weight gain, carpal tunnel problems, intense occasional itching, sleep disturbances (not being able to get to sleep, can't stay asleep, intense nightmares ("screamers" as I call them), ulcers on my tongue that neither my dentist nor oral surgeon have seen before,or are able to diagnose or provide successful treatment for. I'm not naive nor a hypochondriac; I don't blithely assume that my stopping the drug (three days ago!!) will 'cure' all my problems. But I've simply experienced too many health challenges since starting Zocor NOT to suspect a connection to the drug.
Cold Turkey Or Gradual?
posted by Michelle Minick on 24 Sept 2010 at 6:02 am
I have been on 5mg. of Crestor for 4 years. I am 57 and my hair has thinned horribly, I have migrating pain in my shoulder, ankles, knees, wrist and leg muscle pain. At night I have numbing, tingling,pins and needles in my hands, feet and legs. I am constantly tired and short of breath when exterting myself minimally. Short term memory loss (forgettng I put the tea kettle on, leaving milk out, etc., etc.) I have always been a high energy person. I supplemented my Crestor with Fish oil and CoQ10, my good cholesterol increased by 20%, I want to get off of it, but I don't know whether to quit cold turkey or do it gradually, please someone tell me what they did.
Hair Loss
posted by deb on 20 Dec 2010 at 9:49 am
I'm on 40mg of simvastatin every day. my hair is thinning and falling out! i have short term memory loss and dizzy. i just don't feel like i was before taking this drug. i need to get myself back.
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