Daijiworld Media Network – Scotland

Scotland, Aug 27: Statins have revolutionised cardiovascular care by lowering “bad” LDL cholesterol and reducing artery blockages, thereby cutting the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Decades of research have firmly established their benefits.

The landmark West of Scotland Coronary Prevention Study showed that pravastatin reduced coronary heart disease events by 31% and overall deaths by 22% over nearly five years, making statins a cornerstone in heart health management.

However, experts caution that patients must remain aware of potential side effects. Dr Kunal Sood, MD, recently highlighted that while statins save lives, being informed helps patients and doctors work together more effectively.

Memory and brain health

Some people report mild memory lapses or confusion while on statins, but these usually resolve after stopping. Large-scale trials, including one in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, have found no evidence of long-term dementia risk.

Muscle pain and weakness

Muscle aches are commonly cited, but studies show most cases are not caused by statins. The SAMSON trial published in The New England Journal of Medicine revealed that 90% of reported muscle symptoms also occurred with placebo pills, indicating true statin-related muscle issues are rare and manageable.

Blood sugar and diabetes risk

Statins may slightly raise blood sugar, increasing the chance of type 2 diabetes in high-risk individuals. The US FDA has updated warnings, but stresses that the protection against heart attacks and strokes outweighs this small risk. Doctors often manage it through regular monitoring and lifestyle advice.

Disclaimer: This report is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Patients are urged to consult their doctors before starting, stopping, or changing statin treatment.