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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Why Is Lipitor Prescribed In Place Of Simvastatin?

I have been taking simvastatin 40mg for years. I have also been taking Ditilazem. for a few years. I got a message from mt Cardiologist today to stop taking the simvastatin and tell my pharmasist I want Lipitor instead. Why all of a sudden the change
Fri, 27 Apr 2018
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello,

Both Simvastatin and Lipitor drugs are equally effective in reducing the high blood cholesterol levels and thus preventing the risk of heart disease or stroke.

Both can cause various adverse effects. Some side effects are more likely to occur with Simvastatin, and others are more likely with Lipitor.

All statins can cause muscle pain which can be a sign of developing kidney problems or damage. This effect is more likely to occur with Simvastatin as compared to Lipitor.

Hence, your doctor might have prescribed a safer statin like Lipitor to reduce your high blood cholesterol levels.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali
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Why Is Lipitor Prescribed In Place Of Simvastatin?

Hello, Both Simvastatin and Lipitor drugs are equally effective in reducing the high blood cholesterol levels and thus preventing the risk of heart disease or stroke. Both can cause various adverse effects. Some side effects are more likely to occur with Simvastatin, and others are more likely with Lipitor. All statins can cause muscle pain which can be a sign of developing kidney problems or damage. This effect is more likely to occur with Simvastatin as compared to Lipitor. Hence, your doctor might have prescribed a safer statin like Lipitor to reduce your high blood cholesterol levels. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali