Study Finds Most Statin Side-Effects Are Not Caused by the Drugs

A major review published in The Lancet finds that most statin side-effects are not caused by the drugs. Researchers analysed 19 trials involving 124,000 people followed for more than four years. Of 66 side-effects listed on labels, evidence supported only muscle pain, diabetes risk, and four minor effects linked to liver tests, urine changes, or tissue swelling. The study found no strong evidence that statins cause memory loss, depression, sleep problems, or nerve damage. Lead author Christina Reith said the benefits of statins greatly outweigh the risks for most patients. Senior author Rory Collins called for updated labels to reflect the evidence. Experts from the British Heart Foundation and the Royal College of GPs said the findings should reassure patients while supporting informed, shared decision-making.