A few months ago, I asked one of my clients to talk to his doctor about changing his statin medication from lipophilic Atorvastatin (Lipitor) to a hydrophilic statin like Rousvastatin (Crestor). I spoke with his wife this past week, since making the change his cognition has been markedly better – those are her words and emphasis.
Here’s what you need to know:
There are two types of statins: lipophilic and hydrophilic. Lipophilic statins are fat-soluble and hydrophilic statins are water-soluble
Hydrophilic Statins
- Rosuvastatin
- Pravastatin
- Fluvastatin
Lipophilic Statins
- Atorvastatin
- Simvastatin
- Lovastatin
Lipophilic statins can cross a permeable blood-brain barrier. Many people who take lipophilic statins experience symptoms of cognitive impairment. The good news is that after changing to a hydrophilic statin their cognition usually improves if the statin was causing or partially causing the problem. Both types of statins work equally well.
If you’re taking a lipophilic statin and experiencing symptoms of cognitive decline, talk to your doctor about switching to one that is hydrophilic.
Here’s a study you can reference: Lipophilic Statin Use Linked to Increased Risk of Dementia
Could it be that easy to improve your cognition? It has been for some people, and it’s an easy thing to try.
Angela Chapman is a Bredesen ReCODE Practitioner, Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner and Functional Health Educator. If you’re searching for practical ways to protect your brain health and avoid Alzheimer’s disease, her Sunday email is a great resource for you.