Statins - should their use be supported or shunned?
- Georgia McGrath
- 1 hour ago
- 3 min read
Introduction
Statins have been around for decades, and are one of the most prescribed medicines worldwide. Prescription numbers climb every year, and yet many people still have reservations about taking them. This article explores their use, reputation, and why they are still considered vital in reducing the risk of heart disease.
What are statins?
Statins are a group of medicines which help reduce levels of “bad” cholesterol, also known as low-density lipoproteins (LDL). Cholesterol is important for our cells to function. However, too much cholesterol in the blood can build up and block arteries. This increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and events such as heart attack and stroke. Lifestyle modifications, such as diet changes and regular exercise, can help to reduce cholesterol levels. Unfortunately, these measures are not always effective alone. Statins work by preventing LDL production in the liver, as well as helping the body to remove LDL already in the blood.
Who are statins prescribed for?
Statins are prescribed for those with high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, or at high risk of having an event such as heart attack or stroke. They can be prescribed as secondary prevention (after an event), or primary prevention (for those at high risk who have not had an event).
Are statins actually beneficial?
For the large majority of people - yes! Statins have been proven to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke and lower your chances of dying from heart disease. For those at high risk, statins can be life-saving. For others at lower risk, the benefit may be smaller but still meaningful over time.
So, why the bad reputation?
Like most medicines, statins can cause side effects. The most common include muscle pain, tiredness and digestive issues like nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. In much rarer cases, they can cause more dangerous damage to the liver and muscles. They have also been linked to a small increased risk of diabetes. Public perception of these side effects has been significantly impacted by negative media and misinformation. Some believe that their benefits are exaggerated and their side effects are downplayed. As a result, many avoid statins due to fear of these potential side effects.
The ‘nocebo’ effect
The nocebo effect refers to a situation where someone experiences negative effects from a drug or condition, purely because they believe that this will happen to them. Studies have shown this to be an issue with statins, with participants often reporting statin-related side effects even when given a placebo (‘fake’ drug). This strongly suggests that expectation and anxiety can play a role in how side effects are experienced.
That being said, side effects should never be ignored. Speak to a healthcare professional if you feel you are experiencing any negative effects from your medication.
It’s not a ‘one size fits all’
If you do experience side effects from statins, fear not! Not all statins are identical. Many people who do not tolerate one statin are able to take another with no issues. Side effects may also be due to higher doses, so reducing this may also help with any discomfort. Always speak to your healthcare provider before changing, stopping or adjusting any medication you take.
The key takeaway
Statins are effective, well researched medicines that have helped millions of people live longer, healthier lives. Although some may experience side effects, their bad reputation often stems from misinformation and fearmongering. If side effects do occur, doses can be amended or a different statin can be trialled. While statins are not perfect, for most people their benefits far outweigh their side effects. Rather than being shunned based on misconceptions, statin use and their potential benefits should be considered as part of an open, honest discussion with a healthcare provider.
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Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board
