January 2008

To all patients taking Vytorin, the AHA (American Heart Assocation) is recommending that all patients on Vytorin not stop taking it before first consulting with their healthcare provider.

In the recently released SEAS study researchers found that while Vytorin did significantly reduce LDL and other major cardiovascular events, it did not affect the progression of aortic stenosis, a narrowing of the valve that controls blood flow in and out of the heart. The study did reveal an increase in cancer among those taking the drug versus those taking the placebo; however, further analysis of the data showed no indication of an increased overall risk of cancer. The chairpersons of the studies have come to the conclusion that the use of the combination drug (Vytorin) shows no clear increase in overall risk of cancer. If patients still have concerns, they should contact their healthcare provider to make an informed decision about their specific healthcare needs.

Read the American Heart Association's complete statement here.

For more information on this particular study and other heart related diseases, like aortic valve stenosis, please visit: American Heart Association