Zocor and elevated liver enzymes - High Cholesterol Message Board

dixieagle · 01-18-2007, 08:41 AM

Hello,

I've been taking 40 mg. of Zocor for about 3 years now, and it has given me great results re: cholesterol. My cardiologist also checks liver enzymes every 6 months. Until recently, everything was OK, but after the last scheduled blood test I was told that my liver enzymes were "mildly elevated". (Don't know the exact numbers.) He had me rechecked in 3 months (last week) and things were still the same. He then ordered a liver ultrasound, the results of which I am awaiting.

Although I know that elevated liver enzymes are apparently very common, I am a wreck waiting for the ultrasound results (imagining they will find something abnormal and scary.) Has anyone else had their liver enzymes rise after several years on Zocor? I have no noticeable symptoms. I also take 50 mg. Toprol XL and an aspirin a day. I don't drink, have not been diagnosed with diabetes, don't have hepatitis or any risky behavior, though my weight is not what it should be.

Any input will be gratefully received.

Marie

NHone · 01-18-2007, 04:00 PM

Its from the statin (most likely)... It is showing liver damage. This can come on from 1-7 years after starting a statin. Unfortunately the liver test doesn't always show up the severe muscle damage. You should be taking CoQ10 if you are already not.

dixieagle · 01-18-2007, 04:14 PM

I've been taking CoQ10 for a while now - no muscle problems that I've noticed. I wonder just what exactly would show on the liver ultrasound - how does statin-related damage show up?

jkhh · 01-18-2007, 05:33 PM

Dixie,

Is it your ALT level that your dr is concerned (about)? My ALT stays mildly elevated and the guideline is to stay less than 3 x the top end of the normal level (my lab uses 36 as the top range). Do you take Tylenol (acetaminophen) on a regular basis? It is a very common cause of elevated liver panel as are certain anti-biotics.

As to your ultrasound, it would show any visible damage to your liver, however, the most accurate test is the biopsy. I think the biopsy is used as a last resort and I would imagine your levels would have to be pretty high on a prolonged basis before biopsy.
As I stated, my ALT levels have remained mildly elevated for five years or so. My former dr ordered the ultrasound of my liver last year. My liver appeared normal however gallstones were discovered

. Don't be surprised if you too have gallstones found due to prolonged statin use

.

Check webmd for treatment of elevated liver enzymes if you wish.

dixieagle · 01-18-2007, 05:40 PM

I don't know exactly what was elevated - they left a message indicating that "LFT's were still mildly elevated" and that an ultrasound had been scheduled. I will ask for specifics when next I speak to the dr. or his nurse.

I hardly ever take acetaminophen and haven't had an antibiotic in quite a while - just the Zocor, Toprol XL (mitral valve prolapse and a little atrial fibrillation) and a daily aspirin.

I almost expect there to be gallstones - seems almost everyone has them!

I am just not good at waiting for test results, and we have had lots of this waiting to do lately in my family.

Thanks!

Marie