DEAR DR. GOTT:
I recently had my cholesterol checked. My total was 212, LDL (bad) 111, HDL (good) 84, and triglycerides were 86. My family physician suggested I start taking 20 mg Zocor. I am a 69-year-old, fairly healthy female. I am not overweight and don’t smoke. I exercise and do not have a family history of heart problems, but am concerned about the side effects of this medication should I start it.
I have a friend who is a medical doctor who says not to start the medication. She claims that my high good cholesterol offsets the bad because a normal HDL is only around 40. She also says that if my HDL were 40 with the other numbers I have, my total cholesterol would only be 168.
I know that 200 is the magic number, under is best, and over is bad. But my HDL is twice the normal level and everyone says that the higher the good cholesterol the better. Should I take the medication?
DEAR READER:
Your friend the doctor is, in my opinion, brilliant; we agree completely!
In my practice, anyone over 60 years of age was permitted to avoid drug therapy for mildly or moderately elevated cholesterol levels. A total cholesterol of 212 certainly does not warrant medication, especially with an HDL level of 84. Statin drugs are recommended for those who have preexisting heart problems, are at high risk or have a strong family history of heart attack or stroke, or have high cholesterol that does not respond to diet and exercise. You have none of these.
Respectfully decline your physician’s suggestion to take the medication and continue your healthful lifestyle. Remember to have your cholesterol checked each year to ensure it remains as low as it currently is.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Understanding Cholesterol”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
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