ED and Statins

Well this came as kind of a surprise to me, so I'm putting it out there for others to reveiw and give me their take on it.  I have read that some medical studies that have been done show that some statin medications can produce or enhance erectile dysfunction.  Now, I am concerned about this, as I have been taking Red Yeast Rice, which has lovastatin in it, for over two years in an attempt to raise my HDL's and lower my LDL's.  I had been on Vytorin, as prescribed by my cardiologist about three years ago, but it produced abnormal liver enzyme levels, so I discontinued the Vytorin (as per Docs. order) and started taking Cholestene, which is a red yeast rice product.  And, it has helped to manage my cholesteral levels.   But, now I wonder if taking this form of "natural" supplement is what is delaying the reoccurance of my penile erectile function post-surgery RRP. And in hind site, was it lovastatin that was giving me an element of ED prior to surgery.

Any comments on this issue is welcomed, but in the mean time, I will discontinue taking Red Yeast Rice, as my Totoal Cholesterol is at 119.

Thanks

Dallas

Hi Dallas,

A total level of 119 is far from the total picture, you could still be at serious risk at that level. Its the Lipid protein levels (Lpa) that are as important if not more important to follow. A standard fasting cholesterol check will not break down the lipid profile, a separate more detailed test is needed. The Lpa level is the genetic marker that links family members to heart disease, it is hard to lower, some supplements can help a lot ( L-Proline, L-Lysine and Vit C) but there is no statin that can lower your Lpa

A great way to eliminate (or reduce) statins is via food and exercise, foods which include ground Flax seeds, Oat bran , fruits and veggies and Wild Caught Salmon

If you must be on a statin, you may want to ask about Crestor, its the newest and cleanest of the statin family

As for ED and statins, clogged arteries are a major cause of ED, so anything you do to keep the blood flowing batter will help ones ED. A heart attack would be a major ED contributor, so heart health has to come before considering ED issues