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Is Zocor Advisable For Lowering Serum Cholesterol Levels In An Elderly Person?
Question: I am 89 years old. Should I be taking the drug Zocor to control cholorestrol? E-mail: YYYY@YYYY
Brief Answer:
Need for statin
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for trusting HCM
Statins like ZOCOR have several side effects. Studies have also shown that most adults above age 75 do not need statins Unless you had a stroke or cardiovascular disease (CAD). Too much lowering of cholesterol in elderly has increased risk of mortality according to studies. Statins can cause pronounced side effects like myositis, liver toxicity, gastro intestinal distress in people aged 80 and above
Following a healthy life style is the best option for elderly patients who do not require statins
-High fiber food like oatmeal, oat XXXXXXX vegetables, and fruits help lower LDL
-Include avocados in food which are rich in healthy fat
-Fish like mackerel, salmon, sardine containing omega 3 fatty acids prevent harmful effects of LDL on heart
-Avoid excess cheese, fatty, fried food in your diet
-Include food with lean protein like soy bean, beans, lean beef, chicken and turkey breast
Exercise regularly like brisk walking for at least 30 minutes
The decision to start statin should be based on risk vs benefits. Some patients without previous stroke/CAD decide on taking statins with high LDL levels (normal being below 160) and keep a close watch for any of the side effects.
Hope this answers your question
Please address further questions here
Regards,
Dr.Lekshmi
Need for statin
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for trusting HCM
Statins like ZOCOR have several side effects. Studies have also shown that most adults above age 75 do not need statins Unless you had a stroke or cardiovascular disease (CAD). Too much lowering of cholesterol in elderly has increased risk of mortality according to studies. Statins can cause pronounced side effects like myositis, liver toxicity, gastro intestinal distress in people aged 80 and above
Following a healthy life style is the best option for elderly patients who do not require statins
-High fiber food like oatmeal, oat XXXXXXX vegetables, and fruits help lower LDL
-Include avocados in food which are rich in healthy fat
-Fish like mackerel, salmon, sardine containing omega 3 fatty acids prevent harmful effects of LDL on heart
-Avoid excess cheese, fatty, fried food in your diet
-Include food with lean protein like soy bean, beans, lean beef, chicken and turkey breast
Exercise regularly like brisk walking for at least 30 minutes
The decision to start statin should be based on risk vs benefits. Some patients without previous stroke/CAD decide on taking statins with high LDL levels (normal being below 160) and keep a close watch for any of the side effects.
Hope this answers your question
Please address further questions here
Regards,
Dr.Lekshmi
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
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