Taking cholesterol-reducing pills? Serious side effects you need to know

Last week, the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) had released a report stating that “there have been some suspected reports of new-onset or aggravation of pre-existing myasthenia gravis or ocular myasthenia associated with statinuse.” Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that is characterised by fluctuating weakness of the voluntary muscles that control eye movements, facial expression, speaking, swallowing, limb movement and breathing.The common symptoms of myasthenic gravis include drooping eyelids, double vision, problems with chewing or swallowing, speech disturbance, limb weakness and shortness of breath.
The UK MHRA has advised patients with pre-existing myasthenia gravis to be alert to aggravation of symptoms while taking a statin.

What are statins?

Statin is a class of medications primarily used to lower elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood. Cholesterol is a type of lipid (fat) that can build up in the walls of arteries, leading to a condition called atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. Statins help reduce the risk of these conditions by lowering cholesterol levels in the bloodstream.
Some commonly prescribed statin medications include atorvastatin, simvastatin, rosuvastatin, and pravastatin, and others.

They come with side effects

“A number of potential adverse effects are possible with statin medications, which are frequently used to lower cholesterol and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. It’s important to remember that not everyone will suffer these side effects and that statin therapy frequently has more advantages than disadvantages,” Dr. Gyanti R.B.Singh, Senior Consultant – Interventional Cardiologist, Metro Hospitals & Heart Institute, Noida.

Muscle weakness and pain (Myalgia): One of the most prevalent side effects of statins is this. While some people only have minor muscular aches, others may experience more profound weakening or discomfort in their muscles. Rhabdomyolysis is a rare illness that develops from this when muscle breakdown products reach the bloodstream and can harm the kidneys.
Digestive issues: When taking statins, some patients may develop gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal discomfort.
Type 2 diabetes: There is some evidence that, especially in those with diabetes risk factors, may modestly increase the risk of acquiring type 2. For people who already have diabetes or are at risk for developing it, this may be a cause for concern.
Cognitive decline: Although uncommon, some people have reported memory loss, confusion, or cognitive issues after using statins. Research on the connection between statins and cognitive problems is currently underway because it is still not fully understood.

Increased creatine kinase levels: Statins have been shown to raise blood levels of creatine kinase (CK), a sign of muscle injury. If CK levels drastically increase, the medicine may need to be stopped.
Reactions to allergens: Statin-related allergic reactions are rare but can occur in some persons and present as hives, rash, itching, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or neck. Strong allergic responses are extremely uncommon.

When should you stop taking statin?

“With first talking to your doctor, you should continue taking statins. Based on your unique health and risk factors, they will decide when to stop taking your statin prescription. Your cardiovascular health may suffer if you stop taking statins suddenly, so it’s critical to address any concerns or potential changes with your doctor,” says Dr. Singh.