Are Statins Dangerous?

Statin drugs such as atorvastatin, simvastatin and lovastatin are prescription drugs that help lower LDL cholesterol levels in patients with high cholesterol. Statin drugs are well tolerated by many people, but may cause side effects or complications.

Side Effects

• According to the Mayo Clinic, statin drug users may experience joint aches or muscle aches. Nausea, constipation and diarrhea have been reported by statin patients.

Liver Damage

• The use of statin drugs may cause an increase in liver enzymes. Liver damage can occur with high levels of liver enzymes, and doctors should monitor liver enzyme levels.

Muscle Problems

• Muscle cells may break down in patients who take high doses of statins.

Kidney Damage

• High statin doses may cause the muscles to release into the bloodstream myoglobin, a protein that can damage the kidneys.

Lifelong

• Many patients use statins throughout their lives without serious adverse effects. All statin use should be monitored by a patient’s doctor.