Of all the drugs on the market that help to lower cholesterol, two of the most well-known are Lipitor and Crestor. Both of these drugs work to lower the bad LDL cholesterol, lower total cholesterol and raise the good HDL cholesterol. Also, both medications work to lower triglycerides. As with any medication, there are several side effects associated with these drugs.
Muscle and Body Side Effects
Both Lipitor and Crestor can affect your muscles and bones. The medications have been reported to cause muscle pain and tenderness, joint pain, back pain and general weakness. A serious condition called rhabdomyolysis may develop that can cause muscle tissue to break down and may lead to kidney failure. Should you begin to have muscle pain while using either of these drugs, see your doctor immediately.
Liver and Kidney Damage
There have been several reports of liver and kidney damage associated with taking these medications. The liver may begin to increase its enzyme output. Also, in more serious cases, the drugs can cause hepatitis (an inflammation of the liver that causes a general fatigue or feeling of illness) or jaundice (a damaged liver that leads to a yellowing of the skin and eyes). In the most extreme cases, these medications can lead to liver failure. The drugs can also cause your urine amount to significantly change and ultimately lead to kidney failure.
Other Side Effects
The drugs have a multitude of other side effects. Some of the more mild side effects include: headaches, nausea, constipation, dizziness, sinus inflammation and a sore throat. These side effects are generally not common, only being seen in 2 to 4 percent of patients taking the drug. Some of the more serious side effects of the drugs are: an intestinal ulcer, asthma, hair loss, impotence, hypertension, hearing loss, fainting and weight gain. Should you think you have any of these side effects, see your doctor.
