Certain statin medications—those that are fat-soluble, rather than water-soluble—are associated with an increased risk of Parkinson's disease. Fat-soluble statins can cross from the blood into the brain include drugs such as atorvastatin (Lipitor), fluvastatin (Lescol) and simvastatin (Zocor). Parkinson's is a movement disorder that affects nearly 1 million people in the United States. The cause of this potential association is not clear yet but may have, at least partly, be related to CoQ10. Statins lower not only cholesterol levels, but also coenzyme Q10. This nutrient produces energy for cells, and there is evidence it may help protect nerve cells.
