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statin substitution

I am currently on my 4th statin med since last fall to lower my LDL. I have had some intense muscle and joint pain in the past, which is why my doctor has been changing my statin type and dosage. We're trying to find the right combo. I have a history of CAD and PAD, have had a femoral stent, and am a smoker.(59 yo male, btw).
Does anyone know if I can substitute 20 mg Lipitor for my 20 mg Simvastatin, which I just ran out of? I have some Lipitor in the cabinet and my doc is going to put me on Vytorin in 11 days. I was trying to avoid a new Rx of Simva since I have a cupboard full of comparable meds and will be starting Vytorin soon. I can't get a hold of my doc for a week. Just wondering if anyone knew of any bad reactions, a required layoff before switching, etc. Thank you very much.
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757137 tn?1347196453
The side effects of statins are known to be troublesome. Some doctors do not prescribe them.
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63984 tn?1385437939
Jon's suggestions are what I would suggest, but would add a Caveat...

Why take a statin drug at all if you are continuing to smoke?  Smoking will stiffen your arteries, which encourages inflammation and will lead to cholesterol buildup regardless of what statin you take.  I know, I smoked, and am paying a price for doing so.  I quit smoking in my 50's, but to continue to smoke cigarettes and worry about what statin will help is like hitting yourself in the head with a hammer, and wondering which type of hammer will hurt the least.  

Just something to think about.  Keep us informed.
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Avatar universal
Thank you very much
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159619 tn?1707018272
COMMUNITY LEADER
It can be difficult to find that balance between risk and benefit when starting a statin. No one here can recommend taking a drug you are nor prescribed. If you have a prescription for the Lipitor you are probably safe but to be sure you should call your doctor. You may even call your pharmacy, they will be more qualified to answer. Remember, Lipitor is much stronger and usually will have more side effects and much depends on why you got off it in the first place.

Jon
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