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Provacol is in a class of drugs known as statins. It has been acknowledged that these statins (blood cholesterol lowering drugs) can have an unwanted side effect of causing fatigue and tiredness. Discontinuing a drug regime is a matter to be discussed with your Doctor. There are several successful protocols available for reducing this type of medication and maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, it is my suggestion that you undertake these under the guidance of your Doctor or Naturopath.

There are however some simple additions that your husband can make to aid in increasing his energy levels and regaining his zest for life.

One of the mechanisms that the drug Provacol uses to reduce cholesterol levels also has the unwanted side effect of reducing a naturally occurring nutrient called Co enzyme Q10. This CoQ10 is the cofactor, or coenzyme, necessary for the production of about 90% of our cellular energy and it follows that almost all patients taking statin drugs experience some degree of fatigue and muscle weakness. In recent years it has become more popular to prescribe CoQ10 with a statin drug to reduce this unwanted side effect. 

The dosage of CoQ10 is dependant on the amount of time the statin drug has been utilised however a starting dose of at least 100mg 2 to 3 times a day is essential.

This particular nutrient is relatively safe however if you are using Warfarin or other similar blood thinners or chemotherapeutics its application should be discussed with your naturopath or Doctor. It is considered safe to be used concomitantly with aspirin. 

My other suggestion would be to consider the use of a Multi B vitamin. The B vitamins are essential for nervous system support, energy production and fatty acid utilisation. Some innovative companies are now incorporating CoQ10 and B vitamins in the one supplement.
 
General dietary modification, exercise and positive stress management techniques are also integral to the reduction of high cholesterol and the reduction of the risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease. Our friendly instore Naturopaths will be able to offer you helpful advice in these areas.

The information presented on this page has been prepared by a fully qualified naturopath and is for educational purposes only. It does not take into consideration your specific circumstances and is not intended to replace the services of a health practitioner. Any application of the material in this text is at the reader’s discretion and sole responsibility. If you have a persistent health condition or your symptoms are severe please consult a qualified healthcare provider.