Can I take generic statin?
All statins currently available work in the same way. These
medications inhibit a certain enzyme in the body, which prevents cholesterol
build up in the body. However, the major difference between the statins is
not their effectiveness but cost. Stains are expensive medications. The most
expensive are rosuvastatin and atorvastatin. Individuals who have been
prescribed these expensive medications should speak to their doctor about the
generic statins. At the moment, mevacor, pravachol and zocor are available in
generic form and for 1/3rd the price.
Many insurance companies may
require that you try a generic statin before they will pay for a brand name
statin. Some insurance cover all types of statins, after you pay a certain
deductible. Statins bring a lot of money to the pharmaceutical industry, and
usually doctors have little idea what generic brands are available.
Remember statins have to be taken for
life and can cost a fortune. If you really want to lower your cholesterol
cheaply, then eat right and walk regularly. There is absolute no reason why
generic statin will not work as effectively as the expensive brands. So, do not
believe the hype that the more expensive statins are better than the cheaper
brands. I personally believe that these medications are a rip off and instead recommend life style changes for my patients.
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