COVID-19 is no reason to skip

Dear Dr. Roach: Is there any risk starting the twostep process for the new shingles vaccine given the COVID-19 virus? My husband had the original shingles vaccine, and he has also contracted shingles. — L.M.

Vaccines stimulate the immune system to become active against a specific target. As you note, two injections are necessary.

Your husband should still get the new shingles vaccine. It’s much more effective than the first one, and people can get shingles twice.

Dear Dr. Roach: You often discuss statin drugs and beta blockers. Could you define these? — S.M.

Statin drugs are commonly used to reduce cholesterol, but the real goal for using them is to reduce the risk of developing a heart attack or stroke. The generic names of statin drugs all end in “-statin.” They block an enzyme in cholesterol synthesis called HMG-CoA reductase.

Statin drugs have other effects in cellular metabolism that may independently reduce the buildup of cholesterol in the arteries. They are more effective than other cholesterol drugs at reducing heart disease risk.

Statin drugs are appropriate for people with a high risk of developing heart disease. People with existing heart disease, most people with diabetes and people with multiple risk factors benefit most from statin drugs. Statin drugs have important side effects, so they should never be used lightly.

Beta blockers act on the beta receptor, which is present in the heart and blood vessels. The generic names of beta blockers end in “-olol.” Their major effect is to slow down heart rate and reduce the amount that the heart contracts. Beta blockers reduce blood pressure. These dramatically reduce the amount of work the heart needs to do.

Like statins, beta blockers should be used cautiously.