Study Finds Most Statin Side-Effects Not Caused by the Drugs

A major review finds most statin side-effects listed on labels are not caused by the drugs. Researchers analysed 19 trials involving 124,000 people, with four and a half years average follow-up, and published the findings in The Lancet. Evidence supported only muscle pain, diabetes risk, and four minor effects, including liver test changes and tissue swelling. The study found no link between statins and memory loss, depression, sleep problems, or nerve damage. Lead author Christina Reith said benefits clearly outweighed risks for most patients. Senior author Rory Collins called for rapid updates to drug labels. Experts said clearer information could reduce misinformation and prevent avoidable heart attacks and strokes.