Statins warning: Grapefruit juice could interact with the treatment – what else to avoid

This Morning: Dr Chris reveals grapefruit can affect statins

Statins are a group of medicines that can help lower the level of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the blood. LDL cholesterol is branded the “bad” cholesterol because it sticks to the inside of your artery walls. Eventually, a build-up of LDL cholesterol can cause a blocked artery – this can precipitate a heart attack.

Statins can help to reverse this harmful process to help stave off cardiovascular complications.

However, statins present their own risks because the tablets can interact with seemingly benign dietary decisions.

One of the most surprising interactions is grapefruit – a tropical citrus fruit known for its sweet and somewhat sour taste.

Grapefruit or grapefruit juice affects certain types of statins.

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“Do not drink grapefruit juice if you’re taking simvastatin,” warns the NHS.

Simvastatin (Zocor) is used to treat high cholesterol and to reduce risk of heart disease.

As the NHS explains, grapefruit juice increases the level of simvastatin in your blood and makes side effects more likely.

“Atorvastatin interacts with grapefruit juice if you drink large quantities (more than 1.2 litres daily), but an occasional glass is thought to be safe,” says the health body.

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It adds: “Currently, healthcare professionals advise it is safe to drink grapefruit juice and eat grapefruit if you’re taking other types of statins.”

What else should I avoid?

Cranberry juice may also interact with simvastatin, warns the Mayo Clinic.

“If used together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use this medicine, or give you special instructions,” explains the health body.

Research serves as a stark warning of the possible side effects of combining the two.

A case report published in the journal Springer Link followed the fallout of a a 67-year-old woman who consumed cranberry juice while receiving simvastatin.

The woman developed rhabdomyolysis and hepatitis after consuming cranberry juice while receiving simvastatin.

Rhabdomyolysis is a serious syndrome due to a direct or indirect muscle injury.

There are also a number of immediate side effects that can accompany interactions.

According to Bupa, one in 10 people may get side-effects such as:

• Blocked nose, sore throat, nose bleeds
• Headache
• Nausea (feeling sick), diarrhoea, constipation, indigestion
• Pain in your muscles, joints and back.

“Speak to your pharmacist if problems like these don’t settle,” advises the health body.

It adds: “But do see your GP if you have any persistent or severe muscle pain.”

One in 100 people may also get uncommon side-effects such as:

• Weight loss or weight gain
• Sleep disturbances such as nightmares or insomnia
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Changes in sensation – for example, you might have numbness in your Fingers or changes in taste sensation
• A rash
• Feeling very tired
• Neck pain or tired muscles.

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