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Statin discontinued due to neuropathy. What are some alternatives?
Neuropathy | Last Active: Oct 10 11:28pm | Replies (434)Comment receiving replies
I took Simvastatin for many years until I was diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy in my feet and lower legs. I made the decision to stop taking the statin ,there was no improvement in my PN. I tried to eat cholesterol reducing food, mainly porridge. I have existing heart problems so my GP has put me back on Atorvastin but I am concerned about it worsening my PN. Should I be concerned and what are the alternatives. I have not been back to my GP yet but I would welcome any advice before I do
Replies to "I took Simvastatin for many years until I was diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy in my feet..."
I resisted a statin for many years because of my PN. I made a concerted effort to eat the right foods and exercise regularly, but couldn't get my total cholesterol below 350. I am 75 years old, 5'4" and weight 130 lbs. So, I finally gave in and my PCP prescribed rosuvastatin as it was less likely to exacerbate my PN. I talked her into letting me try a very small dose and it worked beautifully. By taking only 5mg of rosuvastatin every OTHER day I have kept my total cholesterol below 200, which is fine by me! And after more than a year of doing this, I have not noticed the slightest increase in PN symptoms.
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I've read that Pitavastatin is less likely to cause neuropathy and it might be something to discuss with your doctor. Here's a reference that might be helpful - Pitavastatin: Finding its Place in Therapy: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3513875/.