The other side of the coin is some folk (mea culpa here) blaming meds they are ambivalent towards anyway, for a variety of “side effects” that may have occurred anyway.
Point in question was me and statins which I have tried twice over the years with extreme reluctance and conveniently developed side effects which gave me an excuse to stop.
I have now accepted another variety post stroke out of fear probably, and am unaware of any side effects although there is limited research re efficacy in over 80yr old females.
I don’t think any medication is withoutside effects for someone. I do think by all means check if new pills mix and match with regular meds, but remember, theoretical interactions and your physician’s wealth of experience are 2 different things.
Hi @ManjiB
Thank you for your thoughtful message and for understanding the topic split. The aim was just to keep discussions focused, not to dismiss any perspectives. I appreciate your insights, and I’m sure both discussions will continue to be helpful.
Anna
I was an extremely fit 86 year old on no medication when I had my stroke. In hospital the nurse arrived with a pot full of pills. I asked her to explain what the purpose of each one was. I took them all except the atrovastatin, which I hid under my tongue and spit into a tissue as soon as she was gone. I knew the side effects of statins and would never take them because as MabjiB says there are healthier ways of controlling colesterol. When I got home I stopped the clopidogrel too because I’m a gardener and am always stabbing myself with rose thorns. A subsequent blood test shows I don’t need it anyway. As ManjiB says the relative risk reduction and absolute risk reduction is so small it’s not worth risking the side effects of some medications in my opinion.