Statins are medication used to lower cholesterol in people who have been diagnosed with coronary artery disease or who have elevated lipid levels that would increase their risk to develop cardiovascular disease in the future. As a primary and proven treatment to combat heart disease, statin use continues to be on the rise. According to data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), between 2011 and 2012 more than one quarter of adults 40 years of age and older reported taking prescription cholesterol lowering medication.
Dr. Paul Thompson M.D., chief of cardiology at Hartford Hospital, recently discussed his findings and the most recent research on Statin Myopathy, a group of side effects commonly associated with the use of statins (Statin Associated Symptoms). They include aching, stiffness, cramping, weakness and even inflammation. According to a 2015 study, these side effects frequently begin within four to six weeks of starting statins, but may occur at any time while taking them. The symptoms most frequently occur in large muscle groups like the legs, thighs, and buttocks but can be experienced in any muscle group.
What the Research Says About SAS
Very few studies have investigated statin use, but Dr. Thompson has observed that weakness and cramping are more common compared to decreased exercise tolerance. Many patients I’ve worked with in cardiac rehab over the years have experienced cramping and discomfort so severely that exercise became nearly impossible during a critical time in their cardiac recovery. The difficulty lies in determining if these symptoms result from the use of statins or from other causes such as deconditioning, dehydration, or even other medications. Unfortunately there are no guidelines for consumers or for physicians to accurately diagnose SAS.
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