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TwitThisTaking Statins
Just because your cholesterol readings drop doesn't mean you can stop taking a prescribed statin without your doctor's say-so. Yet 25 percent of people 65 and older stop taking statins within the first six months, against their doctor's orders. This is a bad idea for several reasons, not least of which is that statins can't keep your cholesterol under control if you don't take them. Moreover, some studies suggest that abruptly stopping the drugs could result in problems, including an increased risk of heart attack, unstable angina, and stroke. Studies in rats found that stopping the drug suddenly dried up production of nitric oxide, the compound responsible for keeping artery walls smooth and flexible and helping to make blood platelets less sticky.Following serious lifestyle changes may enable you to take fewer prescription drugs, or even stop taking them altogether eventually. But don't taper off or forgo your medication without first talking to your doctor.
Paying for Statins
The cost of statins varies widely -- from about $55 a month to more than $200 a month (without insurance) -- depending on the drug and the dosage. If your insurance plan doesn't cover prescription drugs, the cost can be quite onerous. But there are ways to spend less. For instance, because drugs are sold by the pill, not by the strength, you can ask your doctor to prescribe double the strength you need (80 milligrams rather than 40 milligrams, for example), then buy a pill-splitter and cut the pills in half. Grapefruit juice increases absorption of statins. If you take your medication with grapefruit juice, let your doctor know; you may be able to get by with a lower dose.
Expect prices to begin dropping since the first generic statin -- lovastatin -- was approved in 2001. At about $1 a pill, it costs about half as much as its branded version, Mevacor. In coming years more generic statins will become available and may significantly reduce overall prices in this class of drug.
Let your doctor know if you're having trouble paying for your drugs. Most pharmaceutical companies have special programs in which they provide prescription drugs for free or reduced rates to people who can't afford them. Your doctor can tell you more.
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