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

A major review published in The Lancet finds that most statin side-effects listed on drug labels are not caused by the medicines. Researchers analysed 19 randomised trials involving 124,000 people and found evidence for only a few risks. Aside from muscle pain and diabetes, only minor liver test changes, small liver abnormalities, urine changes, and tissue swelling showed links to statins. The study found no strong evidence that statins cause memory loss, depression, sleep problems, or nerve damage. Researchers say the benefits of statins in preventing heart attacks and strokes far outweigh the small risks. They call for updated labels to help patients and doctors make better-informed decisions.