DEAR DR. GOTT:
Shortly after my doctor prescribed a statin drug for me, I saw an item in my local newspaper written by a pharmacist warning that Coenzyme Q10 was depleted by the use of statins.
I discussed this with my doctor who had no objection to my taking the supplement so I started taking 100 mg twice a day (morning and night). For whatever reason I have had absolutely no side effects from the statin medication which has brought my cholesterol back to normal limits.
I am a retired registered nurse and an avid reader of your column, especially of what may concern me!
DEAR READER:
Unless you were experiencing side effects that were relieved by the Co-Q10 there is no evidence that this supplement was beneficial to you. You may simply be one of the vast majority of individuals who don’t experience side effects from statin therapy.
That being said, while I have no personal experience with coenzyme Q10 eliminating statin side effects, I have received a few letters from individuals who claim that it relieved their aching muscles.
I am unaware of any reports that show a relation between statin use and depletion of co-Q10 but the supplement is harmless and may be of benefit to some. If you feel you have avoided side effects from your cholesterol-lowering therapy by using it, then continue to do so.
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.
About Dr. Gott