Statin Medication-Related Muscle Problems: Description, Signs, and Remedies
Statins, medications prescribed to lower LDL or "bad" cholesterol levels, are commonly used to manage heart disease risks. However, some people may experience myopathy as a side effect of taking statins.
Myopathy is a group of disorders affecting the skeletal muscle structure, causing symptoms such as muscle weakness, pain, spasms or cramps, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can lead to rhabdomyolysis, a condition where muscle tissue breaks down and releases harmful substances into the bloodstream, potentially causing kidney failure, heart arrhythmias, heart failure, respiratory system failure, and high blood pressure.
The exact cause of statin-induced myopathy is not fully understood, but one possible cause is that statins may disrupt calcium release from muscles. Another potential factor is that statins may decrease a fatty acid from cholesterol called mevalonic acid, which could reduce energy in the muscle and lead to injury.
In some cases, people can continue taking statins if a doctor recommends lowering the statin dosage or prescribing another type of medication that does not cause myopathy symptoms. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, a doctor may suggest a person discontinue taking statins for a period to determine if the statin is causing the myopathy.
Risk factors for statin-induced myopathy include being of advanced age, having a low body mass index (BMI), taking medications that interact with statins such as calcium channel blockers and cyclosporine, taking certain types of statin such as simvastatin in 40-milligram doses, taking higher doses, misusing alcohol, having kidney function impairment, diabetes, or hypothyroidism. The cause of myopathy due to statin use is related to the increased risk of muscle damage, which can be triggered or worsened by factors like combined use with fibrates (e.g., gemfibrozil) that raise the likelihood of statin-induced muscle injury.
It is important to note that people may be able to recover from statin-induced myopathy if they stop taking statins, but should not discontinue their medication without consulting a doctor. Doctors may want to rule out rhabdomyolysis by ordering blood tests if a person experiences myopathy after taking statins.
Lifestyle habits that can help reduce myopathy symptoms include eating a nutritious and healthy diet, getting enough physical activity, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and stopping smoking. If you are concerned about myopathy or have experienced symptoms after starting statins, it is essential to discuss these concerns with your doctor.
In conclusion, while statins are an essential tool in managing cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart disease, it is crucial to be aware of potential side effects such as myopathy. By understanding the risks and working closely with your doctor, you can make informed decisions about your health and treatment options.
