A recent study from the Ulleval University Hospital in Oslo, Norway, known as the SEAS study, showed an increased risk of cancer with the use of Vytorin (a combination drug with a statin, Zocor, and zetia, which blocks the absorption of cholesterol through the intestinal tract).
Since Zocor has not been associated with increased cancer risk, the conclusion is that zetia must be the culprit. Other reviewers maintain the safety of this drug, but that conclusion is based upon shorter-term studies.
Another interesting product of the SEAS study is that it puts in doubt whether Vytorin helps prevent cardiovascular problems any better than the placebo.
My position remains the same, and I haven’t come down from the soapbox (nor do I intend to). Lowering cholesterol levels is dangerous and could actually be the cause of an increased cancer risk, seen with statin use. This risk is separate from the effects of dropping CoEnzyme Q10 levels in the body, with the resultant tiredness, muscle aches, and occasional risk of death. For more on this matter and the physiology behind my concerns, check out the articles on Cholesterol and Statins on the site (you’ll have to scroll a while; we don’t have an archives up yet, but it’s coming!). Source: Wall Street Journal
My doctor says I can get all the vitamins and minerals I need from my food. What is your opinion on this?
I used to say the same thing to my patients, back in the days before I studied healthy alternatives. It is the party line of allopathic medicine, although that is starting to change. Here's the bottom line, and I'll follow up with some info on what allopaths are now doing:
2 responses so far ↓
1 Debi // Sep 10, 2008 at 8:27 am
This new finding on Zetia has me somewhat concerned. I have been on this medication for a few years. What can I do to repair the damage that may have been done to my liver?
2 Dr. Stan Gardner // Sep 10, 2008 at 10:11 pm
Debi, If you are still on Zetia, then you may discontinue it immediately, without having to wean off of it. Milk thistle and alpha-lipoic acid are both substances that support the liver and will assist in healing. If you discontinued the medication some time ago, then your liver should have recovered by now, unless you are taking other medications that need to be detoxified in the liver.
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