Take both statins, flu vaccines

Q: I just read that the flu vaccine doesn’t work as well for folks who use statins. Is this true? I’ve been taking a low-dose statin for years. — Greg C., University Heights, Ohio

A: The results of a couple of recent studies reveal that this might be the case for people older than65, and it reinforces the need for older folks, especially those who take statins, to make sure they get the high-dose flu vaccine that’s available for seniors, ASAP.

Most important, do not stop taking or reduce your statin dose without your doctor’s permission. Statins are proven life-savers, as is the influenza vaccine. So, what’s the right move?

If you’re taking a statin, ask your doc about getting the high-dose trivalent flu vaccine (whether you’re older than 65 or not). It’s a powerful protection against three strains of this potentially serious respiratory infection. If you combine taking your statin with a flu vaccine, you will be protecting your heart and lungs.

Q: I’m worried that my best friend is hooked on painkillers. Her mood swings can be pretty alarming. I don’t know how to bring up the subject or what to say. Any help you can give me would be appreciated. — Laverne G., Portland, Oregon

A: Using Night of Conversation guidelines provided at www.doctoroz.com, you and your friends will have a chance to help one another avoid addiction, acknowledge it where it exists and discover the paths to recovery.

Extend the invitation: Let folks (family, friends, co-workers) know that you would be honored if they would join you and a few guests for dinner and to engage in an important conversation to compassionately consider drugs and addiction.

Get the conversation started: The guidelines at www.doctoroz.com offer your guests reading material, videos and audio about the current addiction crisis and the science of addiction.

Ask questions: For your Night of Conversation, check out the tool kit at www. doctoroz.com. You get to indicate your specific interest in this dinner conversation.

Spread the word: If you’re hosting a dinner, we hope you will post a picture of an empty dinner plate on your favorite social media site. Why an empty dinner plate? Because you’re going to fill it up with food for thought about addiction! — Email questions for Mehmet Oz and Mike Roizen to youdocsdaily@sharecare. com.