The most common drugs used to treat high cholesterol are often referred to as statins. Statins reduce the amount of cholesterol the liver produces. Although statins are considered safe, there can be side effects with any drugs. But side effects with statins are a problem, because most people who take statins stay on them for the duration of their lives.
Muscle Aches and Pain
Muscle pain is the most frequent side effect of statins and should be brought to your doctor's attention as soon as possible. The pain can range from relatively mild to severe. In extremely rare cases, a life-threatening condition called rhabdomyolysis may occur. Rhabdomyolysis can cause kidney failure or liver damage and occurs in roughly 1 in 15 million statin users, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Cognitive Defects
Memory loss and concentration problems are side effects of statins that have been reported. Memory loss is rare, however, having been reported by less than 0.5 percent of statin users in studies, according to StatinAnswers.com.
Liver Problems
Another possible side effect of statins is liver damage because of increased enzyme production. The statin can be continued for a mild increase of enzyme production, but a larger increase may necessitate discontinuing the drug or switching to a different statin.
Digestion Problems
Digestive problems, such as constipation or diarrhea, have been reported by statin users. Nausea is another potential side effect. Digestive problems are rare and can be reduced by taking medication with dinner.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy, which is damage to the peripheral nerves, occurs in roughly 10 percent of statin users. Most of the time the degree of damage is minor, causing feelings of being tired, shortness of breath or difficulty walking or standing from a sitting position. In more serious cases, symptoms include pain, numbness or tingling sensations and difficulty in controlling muscles.
