Anyone here take Repatha?

[Disaffected]

It's a relatively new LDL lowering drug, taken by subq injection either once or twice per month. Is typically taken with or without statins and without in particular if the patient cannot tolerate statins.

Anyhow, it works extremely well in reducing LDL but does have side effects. I have been taking it for a few months now but am concerned because I am getting chronic muscle pain, weakness and stiffness.

Was wondering if anyone else here was experiencing the same?

[hippywife]

1. I've never used it, but...

some years ago when my doctor put me on a med (don't remember what it was anymore) he specifically told me that if I experienced any of the symptoms you described in your OP, that I was to contact him ASAP!

[Disaffected]

3. I have contacted my docs about it.

My GP said he doesn't know much about the drug and only recommended taking Tylenol. My Cardio doc, at my suggestion, had me get a blood test for creatine kinase (a product of muscle breakdown that both statins and Repatha can cause). The results were in the normal range so I guess that's not the issue.

And yes, as you imply, statins can cause a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis, a rare condition that causes muscle breakdown and, in the most severe cases, death. I had a second cousin die of the condition which is why I was particularly concerned about it.

[Captain Zero]

2. I don't take Repatha, but CoQ10 supplement helps me with the side effects you describe

I take CoQ10 to help with those side effects that statins CAN have.

CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR.

[Disaffected]

4. Thanks, I may try that again.

I originally tried Q10 when on statins but found it didn't seem do much for me. Maybe I'll try it again with the Repatha.

[Maraya1969]

5. Many years ago I took timed released niacin, Guggul mushroom and red yeast rice

Everything went down amazingly.. I think the total cholesterol want down 75 points

[Disaffected]

6. back in the day, I also took niacin.

LDL went down like a rock (I don't recall the numbers now) so much so that my endocrinologist, who was affiliated with a medical research centre, mused about doing a study on my case.

I have recently mentioned niacin to my cardio doc but she did not recommend it and it and it looks like it is not prescribed any more.

I do recall the rather severe flushing as a side effect - very uncomfortable.