Maarten Vasbinder lives in Isaan. His profession is general practitioner, a profession that he mainly practiced in Spain. On Thailandblog he answers questions from readers who live in Thailand.
Do you have a question for Maarten and do you live in Thailand? Send this to the editor: www.thailandblog.nl/contact/ It is important that you provide the correct information such as:
- Age
- Complaints)
- History
- Medication use, including supplements, etc.
- Smoking, alcohol
- Overweight
- Any laboratory results and other tests
- Possible blood pressure
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Dear Martin,
I have been living in Thailand for more than 8 years and have since been treated by the cardiologist of the local hospital in Korat. I am 75 years old, height 1.75 meters and weight 78 kg. I have stopped smoking and drinking alcohol for more than 25 years and I have also restricted eating pork. I also avoid anything that is fried in oil.
Can I stop taking Simvastatin 10mg without negative consequences for my health?
The list below shows my total medication:
- Verapamil
- PG – Digoxin
- warfarin
- Simvastatin
- Carvedilol With this medication I feel good and blood pressure and pulse are also fine, also my blood values
- Furosemide
- Spironolactone
I would like to hear your valued opinion
Regards,
R.
*****
Dear R,
Simvastatin has only negative effects at your age. This applies to all ages, with rare exceptions. Cholesterol in food is not absorbed by your gut. The molecules are too big for that. Cholesterol is made in the liver and is essential for many functions.
Incidentally, I also question the other medicines you take, but of course I do not know what your history is.
It is certainly a reason to ask for a second opinion.
Yours faithfully,
Dr. Maarten