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Can Statin Cause Low Hematocrit Levels?

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Posted on Tue, 22 May 2018
Question: I have been taking atorvastatin 40 mg for 4 months - through carotid endarterectomy surgery - with horrible subjective side effects which, objectively, include very low hematocrit of 32.9% and other low red blood cell counts. Primary Care Physician (PCP) advised Iron and B-12 supplements (which help greatly !) Cardiologist doesn't seem to believe these are due to the statin and recommends liver blood tests (ALT/AST). But, I have read articles on "The Statin-Iron Nexus". Also, PCP bloodwork - not seen by cardiologist shows ALT and AST very mid-range (21 and 20 respectively). Any advice appreciated., but NO ADVERTISING to .gov email account, thanks!!!
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Answered by Dr. Bhanu Partap (45 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Kindly upload your blood reports

Detailed Answer:
Help Sir

After going through the medical details provided by you I understand your concern and would like to tell you that yes, few studies have shown the effect of statins on iron profile but before commenting upon anything I would like to see the blood reports.

Kindly upload the blood report images from your dashboard for evaluation and proper opinion.

Kind Regards
Dr Bhanu Partap
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Answered by
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Dr. Bhanu Partap

Cardiologist

Practicing since :2010

Answered : 4731 Questions

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Can Statin Cause Low Hematocrit Levels?

Brief Answer: Kindly upload your blood reports Detailed Answer: Help Sir After going through the medical details provided by you I understand your concern and would like to tell you that yes, few studies have shown the effect of statins on iron profile but before commenting upon anything I would like to see the blood reports. Kindly upload the blood report images from your dashboard for evaluation and proper opinion. Kind Regards Dr Bhanu Partap