Linda,

Thanks for your question.  All of the statin class of medications are effective in lowering total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and raising HDL.  Some drugs are more potent than others, and these differences are taken into consideration when doctors make decisions about which medication to use for their patients.  Zocor and Lipitor have been available for many years and have considerable data from studies.  These two medications and Crestor are considered by many doctors to be the stronger medications available at this time.

When comparing medications, you can't look at the milligram strength of one drug verses another.  Instead you have to look at recommended doses and compare their effectiveness.  10 - 20 mg of Lipitor is roughly equivalent to 20 - 40 mg of Zocor.  Both are great drugs that perform well, and their side effect profiles are similar. As with all medication, some people do better with one rather than the other.

I hope this information has been helpful.  Be sure to review our website for tips on getting your cholesterol under control using methods (such as diet) in conjunction with any medication prescribed by your doctor.

Martin Cane, M.D.