Cholesterol...

[Harry]

So, what do we do instead, Harry?

Consider the alternatives, like I did Dave, and actually succeed in what I wanted, and without Statins.
They are supposed to prevent heart failure, but can in fact increase the risk of getting one.

[(poco) Sforzando]

So, what do we do instead, Harry?

Speak to your own doctor and bring up these objections (which I agree are cause for concern). But don't automatically trust everything you read on the Internet written by laymen.

[scarpia]

Speak to your own doctor and bring up these objections (which I agree are cause for concern). But don't automatically trust everything you read on the Internet written by laymen.

Quite so.  There's a reason law courts have "rules of evidence" which determine that witnesses cannot appear or evidence cannot be presented unless certain criteria are met which insure that there is a factual basis.  Peer review serves a similar function in scientific matters.  On the internet, however, a crack-pot has the same apparent credibility as a Nobel prize winner.  It is always important to investigate the reliability of sources of information.

[(poco) Sforzando]

Speak to your own doctor and bring up these objections (which I agree are cause for concern). But don't automatically trust everything you read on the Internet written by laymen.

I emailed my doctor asking about this. You will note he is not suggesting that I or anyone else discontinue the statins, or necessarily supplement with co-q10:

ME: As you know, I have been taking Lipitor for many years now with no apparent ill effects. Recently I have been hearing that this drug causes a deficiency in "co-enzyme q10," which some consider an essential substance and say might counteract any benefit from Lipitor. These people say the deficiency could be offset by direct supplementation with co q10.

Are you familiar with this research, and does it have medical validity?

MY PHYSICIAN: There is some data about this in small studies as well as anecdotal information.  I have been telling patients to use it if they have any aches; the dosage is 100 - 200 mg daily.  There does not appear to be any downside at this point.