During the annual American College of Cardiology convention this year, Dr. Michael Weber presented a ground breaking study.  One discovery was that the popular cholesterol-lowering drug Vytorin does nothing to prevent the clogged arteries that can lead to heart attacks.  Vytorin is a combination of the tried-and-true statin Zocor and the new post-statin drug Zetia, the curiou part is taht Vytorin actually did lower the levels of the harmful LDL cholesterol in the study subjects more that the statin alone.  But it did not lower the risk of heart attack.  Now suddenly, Vytorin has fallen out of favor and an older statin Crestor is the preferred cholesterol drug.  Crestor has the remarkable ability to lower bad LDL, to keep arterial walls from thickening, and to prevent heart attacks, stroke, and sudden dealth. 

Taking the next step in your health:

• If you are currently on Vytorin or Zetia alone, don't panic!  They weren't shown to cause harm.
• Stick with statins, especially if you already have signs of heart disease-high LDL, angina, or previous heart attack.
• Question your Vytorin prescription.
• Check you CRP.  High levels of C-rective protein may indicate high heart attack risk and suggest the need for preventative medication.
• Ask about statins even if your LDL levels are ok.  The Crestor research shows that you may benefit, especially if you have a family history of heart disease or other risk factors.

(Source: Better Homes and Gardens, Sept 2008)