Cardiologist Tamaz Gagloshvili: by independently canceling the statins prescribed to him, the patient increases his risk of suffering from a heart attack or stroke.
Drugs such as statins are prescribed to people with high blood cholesterol and the presence of atherosclerotic plaques in the arteries. They block the production of an enzyme that activates the synthesis of cholesterol by the liver. As a result, its level decreases, the growth of existing plaques is limited and the appearance of new ones is prevented.
It often happens that a person who has been taking statins for some time stops taking them, noticing clear improvements in their health. Many patients do this, believing that taking medications constantly is harmful.
Cardiologist Gagloshvili explained how dangerous such a decision is for life.
“If you stop taking the medication, your cholesterol will increase to the levels that were before taking statins. After stopping the medication, its level will increase within two to three weeks,” the doctor explained what actually happens when statins are stopped.
Gagloshvili emphasized that an increase in cholesterol levels increases a person's risk of heart attacks and strokes – statins are prescribed to minimize this risk. The cardiologist drew attention to the fact that, given the existing indications for taking statins, the patient will not be able to normalize cholesterol in non-drug ways – even strict adherence to a diet will not help. According to him, proper nutrition is only an addition to taking medications.
“Statins are prescribed to patients with high cholesterol who have risk factors – cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hypertension. The decision to prescribe drugs is made exclusively by a doctor, having studied the patient's condition, his medical history and the presence of chronic diseases, as well as individual risks and contraindications. Statins should be taken regularly and constantly, without interruption, under the supervision of a doctor,” the cardiologist summarized.
Earlier, the MedikForum.ru portal wrote about what helps to avoid blood clots in arteries and veins.
Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and do not self-medicate under any circumstances. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.
Tamaz Gagloshvili Health cardiologist, therapist