What are the potential side effects of statins?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a working woman with an active lifestyle. I was prescribed statin when I crossed 60, but I wanted to get a second opinion before starting any new medication. What are your thoughts on using statins? Are there alternative treatments we should explore or any potential side effects I should be aware of? I want to make sure I am making the best decision for my health. What do you recommend?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Statins are the recommended medicines for lowering cholesterol levels. However, their use depends on multiple factors like underlying other medical conditions like diabetes, heart, nerve, and blood channel-related issues. It is dose and duration depends on the level of abnormality. So statins are recommended first-line medicines to reduce cholesterol levels. There are no alternative medicines but there are different classes within statins that can be tailored to patient requirements. Statins do have some side effects like muscle pain, effects on the liver, etc but are largely manageable. If you can help me with your recent laboratory reports and other medical conditions you may have I will be in a better position to suggest. Having said this, regular physical exercise, and avoiding oily and deep-fried (in oil) food will certainly help.

Hope this helps.