Is is safe to stop taking crestor?
Statins (HMG‑CoA reductase inhibitors) such as Crestor (rosuvastatin) are prescribed to lower low‑density lipoprotein (LDL) “bad” cholesterol and triglycerides, while raising high‑density lipoprotein (HDL) “good” cholesterol. By blocking the liver enzyme HMG‑CoA reductase, they reduce cardiovascular risk, including heart attack and stroke.
If you experience intolerable muscle aches, liver enzyme elevations, or other serious side effects after a few weeks, your provider may suggest stopping Crestor. Statins do not cause withdrawal symptoms and do not require tapering.
However, abruptly discontinuing Crestor can rapidly reverse its benefits, leading to elevated cholesterol and increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events. Any decision to stop should be made with your healthcare provider’s guidance.
Risks of stopping Crestor suddenly
- Rebound high LDL cholesterol levels within weeks
- Increased risk of heart attack and stroke
- Worsening angina (chest pain) and coronary artery blockages
- Higher likelihood of hospitalization for cardiovascular events
- Elevated overall cardiovascular mortality risk
Common reasons for stopping Crestor
- Muscle problems: aches, cramps, fatigue, or rare rhabdomyolysis risk
- Liver enzyme elevations: typically mild but occasionally severe
- Increased blood sugar: small diabetes risk, especially in prediabetes
- Memory complaints: rare confusion or memory loss that resolves on discontinuation
- Pregnancy: statins are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Alternatives and strategies before stopping
- Switch to a different statin or non‑statin agent (ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors)
- Add coenzyme Q10 or other supplements to mitigate muscle symptoms
- Implement intensive lifestyle changes: Mediterranean or vegan diet and 150 minutes/week of moderate exercise plus strength training
- Reduce statin dose and combine with another lipid‑lowering therapy
How to stop Crestor safely
Stopping Crestor should always be under medical supervision. Your provider may:
- Lower your dose gradually
- Switch to an alternative cholesterol‑lowering medication
- Monitor lipid panels and cardiovascular risk factors closely
Sources
- Salim S., et al. “2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease.” Circulation. Vol 148, No 9: e9–e119. Accessed Apr 25, 2025.
- “Blood Cholesterol.” National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Accessed Apr 25, 2025.
- Crestor (rosuvastatin) tablet, film coated [package insert]. AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP; last updated 7/2024. Accessed Apr 25, 2025.