Taking Cholesterol Medication! Have Elevated CPK!!

[md101706]

Taking Lipitor, Niacin and baby Aspirin 81mg to control cholesterol! Recently took a blood test and noticed elevated Creatine PhosphoKinase at 268! I exercise, diet and take medications mentioned as part of an overall plan to control cholesterol and blood pressure! Is this elevated CPK of 268 something to be concerned about! What is considered a dangerouis level of CPK? Is it possible CPK is a result of exercising(running and weightlifting) or is it the cholesterol medications that's elevating my CPK? Appreciate yours expertise and thoughts on this matter, Thanks!!

[Lee Kirksey, MD]

CPK is found in skeletal muscle and myocardium (heart muscle). Lipitor can cause various levels of elevation and associated symptoms like muscle aches, weakness and atrophy. The elevated CPK may be of no consequence or it may cause serious problems depending upon the degree of elevation and the symptoms. A severely elevated CPK can cause liver damage. I would consult with your physician to determine if this is a new finding. You should compare the cpk value to previous levels and also have your renal (kidney) function assessed. The cpk may be a result of your exercise activities but better safe than sorry. Good Luck

I have attached a paragraph from the package insert

Rare cases of rhabdomyolysis with acute renal failure secondary to myoglobinuria
have been reported with atorvastatin and with other drugs in this class.
Uncomplicated myalgia has been reported in atorvastatin-treated patients (see ADVERSE
REACTIONS).

Myopathy, defined as muscle aches or muscle weakness in conjunction
with increases in creatine phosphokinase (CPK) values >10 times ULN, should be
considered in any patient with diffuse myalgias, muscle tenderness or weakness, and/or
marked elevation of CPK. Patients should be advised to report promptly unexplained
muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, particularly if accompanied by malaise or fever.
Atorvastatin therapy should be discontinued if markedly elevated CPK levels occur or
myopathy is diagnosed or suspected.

[KarenZ]

You can read about the connection of statin (Lipitor) medicines on muscle function and myositis at www.tma.org. I would be concerned if your CPK (CK) level had increased since taking Lipitor. Do some research and speak with your doctor if you have concerns.

[DeeDesai]

you take 3 medicine just to control your cholestrol.  there is something called a lifestyle change and exercise (which ou do) and trust me, that only has good side effects.  

[mmmhady]

A related discussion, How to lower CPK was started.