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Are Statins the Culprit Behind Your Muscle Pain?
Published: Apr 08, 2024
Statins are popular cholesterol-lowering drugs, but they can sometimes cause muscle problems. Learn about the potential muscle-related side effects of statins and how they can be managed.
What Are Statin-Related Muscle Problems?
Statins are generally safe, but they can cause muscle-related side effects like myalgia, myopathy, and in rare cases, rhabdomyolysis. These conditions involve muscle pain, weakness, and inflammation. Myalgia is the most common, presenting as muscle discomfort similar to flu symptoms, whereas myopathy involves muscle weakness without pain.
Why Does This Happen?
The exact cause of muscle issues from statins isn't fully understood, but genetic factors and drug interactions may play a role. Studies suggest that variations in certain genes affect how statins are processed in the body, which can increase the risk of muscle problems. Additionally, interactions with other medications can heighten this risk.
Who Is at Risk?
People with pre-existing conditions or those on multiple medications are at a higher risk of experiencing muscle issues from statins. Factors like age, race, and gender also contribute, with older adults and women being more susceptible. Those with liver or kidney issues should be cautious as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
They include myalgia, myopathy, and rhabdomyolysis.
Genetic factors and drug interactions can increase the risk.
Older adults, women, and those with pre-existing conditions.
The Bottom Line
Understanding and managing the risks can lead to better outcomes for those on statins.
References
- Grundy SM. Can statins cause chronic low-grade myopathy? Ann Intern Med 2002; 137:617.
- Rosenson RS, Baker SK, Jacobson TA, et al. An assessment by the Statin Muscle Safety Task Force: 2014 update. J Clin Lipidol 2014; 8:S58.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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