Am I in danger?
 

A few threads down I read about the positive/negative effects of statins. As a newly diagnosed diabetic, I was given metformin 1000 mg (a statin) for the diabetes. My doctor has also prescribed Pravachol 80 mg. (another statin) which I am to begin taking in about 3 weeks after I get my blood sugar regulated. Is this a double whammy?

I've done some research, and as far as I can figure Metformin is not a statin. It is used for diabetes, statins are cholesterol lowering agents.

If you have any concerns, tho please contact your physician and ask for clarification.

Hi Mfuson!

As far as I know Metformin is not a statin drug, it's an antihyperglycemic. Not that it's not without it's own side effects which could include nausea, diarrhea and in some rare cases a dangerous buildup of lactic acid in the muscles. The incidince of side-effects is fairly low and it is an excellent drug for controlling blood sugar in type 2 diabetics.
Pravachol, on the other hand, is a statin drug but by taking both you are not giving yourself a "double whammy".
I personally would be very hesistant to take any statin drug and I wonder if perhaps you can talk your doctor into letting you wait a couple of months and have your cholesterol checked again before you decide whether or not you really need it. 2 months should be enough time to see if low carbing is going to bring your cholesterol down and it will certainly be enough time to bring down your triglycerides. Just something to think about....