My history with Statins
Thanks to modern medicine, particularly highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), many individuals diagnosed with HIV today can expect to live as long as those without the virus. However, I faced several challenges due to the lifesaving HAART medications, which raised my cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Initially, I had to adjust my lifestyle and personal habits, including quitting smoking and ensuring I got enough rest.
Back in the 90s, there was limited research available regarding care for women with HIV, but as I read more, my understanding broadened. I learned that the risk of heart disease is higher among people living with HIV compared to other populations. During this time, my primary care provider added two medications to my regimen to help with vascular health and potential heart inflammation. For several years, I have been taking Atorvastatin and Tricor (Fenofibrate).
One important study, REPRIEVE (Randomized Trial to Prevent Vascular Events in HIV), highlights the need for ongoing research on HIV, women, and heart health. The article discussed that both women and men living with HIV have an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease, which generally increases with age. However, people living with HIV face double the risk; one recent study indicated that those with HIV are twice as likely to experience a heart attack compared to those without the virus.
This trial tested whether a medication called pitavastatin can help prevent heart disease in people with HIV. Pitavastatin is already FDA-approved and belongs to the statin class of drugs, which lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation. (1) I am on a similar medicine and I think it will help me not clog my arteries and help me live longer.
My goal is to adjust my medications to manage my health better.
(1) Campaign Launched to Get More Women Into HIV Heart Health Study, By David Heitz - , https://www.reprievetrial.org/campaign-launched-to-get-