Key takeaways
- Statins lower LDL “bad” cholesterol by reducing how much cholesterol your liver makes, which reduces the risk of blocked arteries, heart attack and stroke.
- A major University of Oxford review of 30 long-term studies found statins rarely cause severe muscle problems: about 11 mild episodes of muscle pain or weakness per 1,000 people on a moderate-intensity statin.
- There was no reliable evidence that statins cause memory loss, depression or cancer; they cause a small rise in blood sugar and a very small (about 0.1%) increase in liver blood test abnormalities.
- Statins are among the most heavily researched medicines for preventing heart attacks and strokes. Never stop or change a statin without speaking to your doctor.
There are plenty of conflicting headlines about statins, the medicines used to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Reports that they cause muscle pain and weakness, or even a rise in blood sugar, can leave you wondering: are statins safe?
With seven to eight million adults in the UK taking statins, according to the British Heart Foundation, it’s worth separating fact from fiction.
How do statins work?
Statins reduce the amount of cholesterol your liver makes, which lowers your LDL “bad” cholesterol.
“Statins work by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver. Lower levels of the ‘bad’ LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol mean less cholesterol is available to build up inside artery walls, helping to reduce the risk of blocked arteries and, subsequently, heart disease,” says Dr Adam Haque, Co-Founder & Medical Director at Tomorrow Wellness.
Who are statins prescribed for?
As well as people with high cholesterol, statins can be prescribed to people who have had a heart attack or stroke, or anyone at increased risk of cardiovascular disease because of conditions such as diabetes.
Do statins cause muscle pain?
Rarely, and much less often than many people think. A major review by researchers at the University of Oxford’s Nuffield Department of Population Health analysed 30 long-term studies from the past 30 years to give a clearer picture of statins.
“The research has confirmed that statins rarely cause severe muscle problems, with muscle pain or weakness being common in adults whether they take a statin tablet or not,” says Dr Haque.
“The data has shown that for every 1,000 people taking a moderate-intensity statin, the treatment would cause 11 mild episodes of muscle pain or weakness.”
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Do statins cause memory loss, depression or cancer?
The review found no reliable evidence that they do.
“Researchers have also found no reliable evidence that statins cause many of the conditions that are often listed in patient information leaflets, such as memory loss, depression or an increased risk of cancer,” adds Dr Haque.
What are the real side effects of statins?
- Blood sugar. Statins cause a small increase in blood sugar, so people already at high risk of type 2 diabetes may develop it sooner.
- Liver blood tests. “A genuine, yet small, risk to be aware of is a small increase in risk (about 0.1%) of liver blood test abnormalities. However, the research found that this doesn’t usually lead to liver problems such as liver disease,” says Dr Haque.
The NHS has more on statins and their side effects.
Should you be worried about taking statins?
If you’ve been advised to take a statin, there’ll be a good reason.
“Ultimately, statins are one of the most heavily researched and effective medicines available for preventing heart attacks and strokes,” says Dr Haque.
Statins work best alongside a healthy lifestyle: regular exercise, heart-friendly food, a healthy weight, not smoking and keeping stress in check. If you have concerns about your statin, talk to your GP or pharmacist; don’t stop or change it without medical advice.
Around 50%. That’s roughly how many UK adults have high cholesterol, and many have no idea. Every Tomorrow Health Check includes advanced blood analysis, and our guide to cholesterol results explains what the numbers mean.
Know your cholesterol. Book a Tomorrow Health Check
Photo: Christine Sandu on Unsplash.
Frequently asked questions
Are statins safe?
Statins are one of the most heavily researched medicines for preventing heart attacks and strokes. A major University of Oxford review of 30 long-term studies found that serious side effects are rare.
How common is muscle pain with statins?
Severe muscle problems are rare. For every 1,000 people taking a moderate-intensity statin, the treatment causes about 11 mild episodes of muscle pain or weakness, and muscle aches are common in adults whether they take a statin or not.
Do statins cause diabetes?
Statins cause a small increase in blood sugar, so people already at high risk of type 2 diabetes may develop it sooner. If you’ve been prescribed a statin there’ll be a good reason, so discuss any concerns with your GP.
Should I stop taking my statin if I get side effects?
No, not without advice. Speak to your GP or pharmacist about any side effects, and don’t stop or change a statin on your own.