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Q. I am alarmed by recent reports that Vytorin and Zetia are associated with plaque build-up in the carotid artery. My doctor tells me that until more is known, I should continue taking the prescribed medicine. Do you agree? Is it harmful to switch abruptly to another cholesterol-lowering medicine such as simvastatin?
A. In the wake of the ENHANCE study that produced such disappointing results with Vytorin, the American College of Cardiology convened an expert panel to advise their colleagues. These thought leaders suggest that doctors should stick with statin-type cholesterol-lowering drugs, which have a proven track record.
Until there is more convincing data about Vytorin or Zetia, the cardiologists recommend using them only as a last resort. There should be no danger switching to simvastatin since it has been shown to be effective.
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I had an "interrupted MI" in 7/05... early symptoms and stents w/in 20 min relieved problem... and Cardio recommended Lipitor. Results were great but in 3/06 he recommended I switch to Vytorin. Within 6 months, I experienced every side effect associated w/this drug... muscle pain, leg cramps, dizziness, lack of focus, forgetfulness... you name it. I went off V cold-turkey -- bad idea we know now -- but eventually went to Red Yeast Rice... MDs say not as effective but no side effects. Note: I did not have any side effects from Lipitor but probably did not take it long enough to find out.
My perosnal advice: Do not ever take Vytorin!
I have been taking Lipitor for some time. My Dr. also added Zetia. I read a recent article by you all that it (Lipitor) causes problems with leg muscles, etc. I was experiencing this long before I read your article. My Dr. suggested I quit the Zetia and see what happens. I still have th pains in my legs, but now since I have been off the Zetia, I am experiencing shortness of breath. Could this be a side affect of not taking the Zetia? Thank you.
Dr. put me on Vytorin as my triglycerides were elevated. I have been experiencing muscle cramps which involved the sciatic nerve (ouch). When I last saw Dr. I asked about red yeast rice. She okayed it but said to continue with the Vytorin, too. My health food person is very reluctant about this combination. What think you of this situ?