Dose of Simvastatin

[smurfchops]

Is a dose of 40mg Simvastatin very high ? My mother's cholesterol is 7.7 but I wondered if a lower dose of Simvastatin would be sufficient. She is worried about liver problems and side effects. She has been taking these for two days and no side effects yet.

[DEN53]

yes smurf, 40mg is quite high - if she has'nt any side affects, then she is lucky. Most people I know that have been on this dosage have come off it or gone onto a lower dosage. My Mum takes 10mg and so does Mr. Den.

The doctors dish these statins out like sweets - 7.7 is not massively high and perhaps a lower does would be just as sufficient. I think it all depends on the GP - they all have different views.

Personally, I would get the dosage lowered.

[looobylooo]

hi smurf,
im on 20mg a day and my cholestorol was 4.2 the last time it was checked.
my aunties doctor, out the blue, upped hers and alot of his other patients up from 20mg to 40mg, but she reduced her amount back down, due to bad aches and pains in her legs because of them.

[honky-tonk]

I have been on the same for the past 4 months and had no side effects. 40mg would be more effective than a lower dosage and her levels are high thats why the doc most likely put her on the 40mg. Having a word with the doctor should put you moms mind at ease.

[smurfchops]

Are there any long term side effects with statins ? I know some people are 'for' them and some people 'against'. When do the side effects start, if at all? She is seeing her doctor again in two months. Thanks everyone.