How safe is taking Zorcor for cholesterol?
Patient: my cholesterol is 241. I am a 57 y.o. female with djd in joints and ileosacral spinal djd for which I recieve steroids injection in my L knee every 4 to 6 months. I have a total knee replacement as of march this past year. My bp is borderline for which I take 1/2 half tab hctz and pain meds along with prilosec qd. My doctor has notified me I had to start Zorcor for my cholesterol. I do not like taking loads of meds. Can my cholesterol elevation be caused bythe steroids injections. I walk and use my wii to exercise daily and water aeorobics 2x a week. I don't want to starttaking more meds especially after reading the side effects. Do I have a valid point? Doctor: Hello!Thank you for asking on HCM!Regarding your concern, I would explain that total levels of cholesterol is not a confident indicator of your cardio-vascular risk. A Total cholesterol/ LDL ratio more than 4.5 could indicate a higher cardio-vascular risk related to dyslipidemia and the necessity of statin intake. From the other hand, it is true that steroids cause elevation of cholesterol levels. So, for the moment, I would recommend some modifications to your diet (reduce saturated fat and increase food rich in omega 3 fatty acids). As soon as you will stop taking steroids, your cholesterol levels will return to normal again. Hope you will find this answer helpful!Best wishes, Dr. Iliri