Is it safe to stop taking statins once cholesterol is normal?

When considering stopping statins, it's important to understand the effects they have beyond just lowering cholesterol. Research shows that stopping statins can lead to changes in blood vessel function and increase inflammation in the body.

• Blood Vessel Function: According to one study, stopping simvastatin, a type of statin, can affect how well blood vessels work. This means that even if cholesterol levels are normal, stopping the medication might lead to problems with the heart and blood vessels.

• Inflammation: Another study found that stopping statins can lead to an increase in a substance called C-reactive protein, which is a marker of inflammation. Inflammation can contribute to heart disease, so it's important to consider this when thinking about stopping statins.

Overall, while your cholesterol might be normal, stopping statins can have other effects on your heart health. It's best to talk with a healthcare provider to make the right decision for your health.