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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Spike In Cholesterol Level?

My husband s recent blood tests showed his cholesteral level to be 178. He has been taking Lovastatin 40 mg. for years and would like to discontinue it now. There are no genetic factors involved: he has simply change to a healthy diet! Is is safe to simply stop taking the drug cold turkey?
Fri, 26 Dec 2014
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Internal Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
Hello. Welcome to HCM.
I have read your question and understand your concerns.

At present the cholesterol levels are normal with lovastatin 40mg. But you can't stop suddenly lovastatin. Gradually your doctor will reduce the dosage from 40 to 20 and so on.. Because sudden stoppage of cholesterol medicines will lead to reelevation of cholesterol levels.

Secondly, there are different components of lipid profile like total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, HDL. All components should be seen by a doctor. Then he can adjust your dose only.

So, gradually we can reduce the dosage but not suddenly.

Thank you.
Have a nice day.

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What Causes Spike In Cholesterol Level?

Hello. Welcome to HCM. I have read your question and understand your concerns. At present the cholesterol levels are normal with lovastatin 40mg. But you can t stop suddenly lovastatin. Gradually your doctor will reduce the dosage from 40 to 20 and so on.. Because sudden stoppage of cholesterol medicines will lead to reelevation of cholesterol levels. Secondly, there are different components of lipid profile like total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, HDL. All components should be seen by a doctor. Then he can adjust your dose only. So, gradually we can reduce the dosage but not suddenly. Thank you. Have a nice day.