Are there any side-effects when taking statins?
Yes, although the Government assessment suggests that they are very few and do not outweigh the advantages of taking statins. This may be true, but one side-effect is muscle damage as a result of rhabdomyolysis, which can be pretty sinister. Statins can also occasionally cause liver damage, so it is normal practice to check liver function before starting to take the drug. There are also some more minor side-effects. Even though taking statins at night is more effective at lowering cholesterol, those people who have difficulty sleeping when taking the drug should take it in the morning. Who should not take statins? As I have mentioned, statins can cause liver damage, so some patients with diseased livers, perhaps as a result of heavy and prolonged alcohol consumption, may not be able to use the drug. Likewise, any patient who experiences muscle problems should stop taking the drug. Pregnant or lactating women should also avoid statins. Statins also react with some other drugs, such as d
