Re: Lipitor Problems

[Guest guest]

I was taking Lipitor while also on HIV meds. I can’t recall for certain which meds I was on at the time. I think it was Kaletra, Epivir and Viread, but it could have been Atripla. I was experiencing very severe, daily headaches. After reading that Lipitor was contraindicated with one of my then current HIV meds, I was switched to Crestor in place of Lipitor, and the headaches went away immediately. My doctor started me out on half a dose of Crestor – only 2.5 mg – and it’s doing a great job at keeping my cholesterol levels in line. You might perhaps talk to your doctor about switching you to Crestor or one of the many other statins, and then only at half the smallest dose, gradually increasing if necessary, until you find the smallest dose that does the job. Best of luck. -

[Guest guest]

I've never had a problem with any cholesterol reducing medications, and I take quite a few. I also take Novir and have no problems. Ask your doctor about Tricor, Trilipix or Zetia and others. Also, Lipitor comes in many different dose sizes and perhaps you only need a smaller dose, again discuss with your doctor. As for the Lovaza, it is a more refined form (the heavy metals such as mercury are removed) of the fish oil capsules you can get over the counter for a lot less money. I'm surprised he didn't suggest you take them since your insurance doesn't cover Lovaza. One last thought, you didn't mention whether it is your regular doctor or if you were seeing a Cardiologist for this problem. I highly recommend getting a referral to a Cardiologist since this is their area of expertise and you generally would only need to see

them once a year.Good luck, you really have many options to choose from.