Indra asked
I was advised to take Atorvastatin Calcium 10mg. do I need take other medicine like COQ 10, in order to nullify side effects of Atorvastatin ? What mg ?
Answer
"Statin" drugs, such as Lipitor (atorvastatin), are noted for their relatively high prevalence of adverse effects in relation to the muscles, also referred to as myopathy. Reported side effects include:
- Muscle pain
- Muscle tenderness
- Muscle stiffness
- Muscle weakness
Most studies report that the symptoms usually occur in large muscle groups in the legs and back. If symptoms occur, they generally manifest quickly, within 4 to 6 weeks after starting a statin like Lipitor. However, there are reports of myopathy occurring after individuals have been on therapy for years.
Lipitor Muscle Pain - CoQ10
The exact mechanism behind statin, and Lipitor induced, myopathy isn't definitively known but one theory involves co-enzyme Q10, or CoQ10. Statin drugs have been shown to, at least partially, inhibit natural production of co-enzyme Q10, which is required for mitochondrial energy production.
Studies are mixed however, in regard to whether or not supplemental co-enyzme Q10 helps to reduce, or prevent muscle pain. The European Atherosclerosis Society Consensus Panel states there is not evidence to recommend the supplement to those taking Lipitor:
A double-blind RCT and a meta-analysis however, failed to substantiate that CoQ10, even at high doses, reduced symptoms in patients with SAMS [statin-associated muscle symptoms]... Hence, this Panel does not recommend supplementation with CoQ10 [to treat or prevent SAMS].
Canadian guidelines don't recommend CoQ10 either based on available evidence.
Nevertheless, there have been many studies, such as this one, that point to CoQ10 supplementation being effective for statin induced muscle problems. Larger, more recent studies, have shown benefit with CoQ10 in dosages as low as 50 mg per day.
CoQ10 is well tolerated and has minimal, if any, drug interactions. If you are experiencing problems with Lipitor, it is worth trying it but be sure to let your doctor know of your side effects. Most studies that show benefit using CoQ10 with Lipitor used between 100mg and 200mg per day.
