Reduction of HDL Cholesterol

  After 12 weeks of taking 10mg of Lipitor daily, my total
  cholesterol went from 286 to 158, my LDL level went from
  201 to 70, and my HDL level went from 47 to 41. I should
  note that I also dramatically reduced my fat and
  alcohol intake during this time. I have read that Lipitor
  is supposed to increase HDL cholesterol, but mine
  decreased by nearly 15%.  Is this reduction of HDL
  cholesterol common ?  
  Thanks
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Dear Jonathan:
You have asked an interesting question.  Lipitor does a very good job lowering LDL cholesterol, the bad cholesterol.  It can also raise the HDL (good cholesterol) a bit.  A low cholesterol diet tends to lower both the HDL and LDL levels; that doesn't in any way diminish its importance.  Alcohol can raise the HDL levels a bit.  Therefore, it is not surprising that the changes you made have resulted in a dramatic lowering of the LDL and a very small lowering of the HDL.  
Overall, I think this is a major improvement in your lipid profile and you should be very happy.  Your numbers will decrease your risk of heart disease.  You should keep doing what you are doing.
If you wish to be evaluated here at the Cleveland Clinic, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE for an appointment with a cardiologist at desk F15.  Information provided in the Heart Forum is for general purposes only.  Specific diagnoses and therapies can only be provided by your doctor.