Are you over 40 and living with HIV?
National guidelines now recommend to take a daily statin tablet to prevent cardiovascular disease even if you are at low risk of having heart problems.
Why am I being offered a statin only now?
This is because there is new evidence from a large international study called REPRIEVE. This included more than 7,000 people living with HIV. The study found that people taking a daily statin tablet reduced their chance of getting cardiovascular disease by 35%.
What is cardiovascular disease?
It is a general term to describe diseases of the heart or blood vessels. It can include angina, heart attacks and strokes.
What is a statin?
Statins are medications that help lower your cholesterol.
Cholesterol causes hardening or narrowing of your arteries and cardiovascular disease.
What are the side effects of statins?
A very small number of people have side effects (less than 3 people in 100). They may include muscle aches and pains, or loose stools.
If you get these, speak to your doctor and they can change the medication.
Will it interact with my HIV medication?
Some HIV medications will interact with statins. Your HIV consultant will suggest the correct dose and statin to start.
I am not sure yet. Where can I read more information?
The NHS website has useful information on statins.
I would like to start a statin. What should I do?
Make an appointment with your GP to get started on the statin. You can show them this factsheet so they are aware of why you are asking them. They may request a blood test first and you will need another blood test after you start the medication.
What else can I do to lower my cholesterol?
You should aim to maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly. Stopping smoking and cutting down alcohol also reduces your cholesterol.
You can speak to your GP to get more support.
Check out the British Heart Foundation.