If you keep up to date with the news you may have seen a recent report about statins, suggesting that they are in fact much safer than once thought. In today’s blog we will be going through exactly what this means for those who take statins, putting any queries at ease.
What are Statins and Why Might You Need Them?
So, first things first, what are statins and why might we need them? Statins are medicines that help lower the level of bad cholesterol (LDL) in your blood. Cholesterol can build up in your arteries over time, making them narrower and increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Statins work by reducing how much cholesterol your liver makes, helping to protect your heart and blood vessels.
Someone Might Need Statins if They:
- Have high cholesterol
- Have had a heart attack or stroke
- Have diabetes
- Are at higher risk of heart disease based on age, blood pressure or family history
Statins are the most commonly prescribed drug in the UK with around 8 million people taking them. According to a review by the University of Oxford there are calls for patient information leaflets to be updated.
Statins do not cause most of listed side effects, major study finds:
The current information leaflets list a range of side effects that can be caused by the drug itself which can often scare people away from taking it.
Recent research published in The Lancet has provided reassuring findings about the safety of statins.
The analysis reviewed data from more than 120,000 participants across 19 clinical trials, where statins were compared with a placebo (sometimes called a dummy tablet). Participants were monitored for an average of four and a half years after starting treatment.
The results showed no meaningful increase in the vast majority of side effects that are often mentioned in patient information leaflets. Importantly, the study found no higher risk of issues such as memory problems, low mood, sleep disturbance, erectile dysfunction, weight gain, nausea, tiredness or headaches among those taking statins compared to those taking a placebo.
Why These Findings are Important:
It’s worth understanding why this latest research has gained so much attention. Clinical trials are very carefully designed and monitored, which means the results are taken seriously by healthcare professionals. In this case, the study looked at data from a very large number of people over several years. When research includes tens of thousands of participants, it gives us much more reliable and meaningful results.
Findings like these don’t just stay in medical journals, they help shape national guidance and can lead to updates in patient information leaflets. That’s important, because it ensures the advice people receive is the most up to date and accurate evidence available.
Most Common Worries about Statins:
One of the most common worries we hear about statins at Coda Pharmacy is muscle pain. A small number of people can experience mild aches when they first start taking them. Serious problems are rare, and for most people the protective benefits for the heart are far greater than the risk of side effects.
The key thing to remember is that treatment can be reviewed. If you notice muscle aches or anything that doesn’t feel quite right, don’t ignore it, but don’t stop your medication suddenly either. Often, a simple dose adjustment or trying a different statin is all that’s needed.
Why Stopping Statins Suddenly is Risky:
We also know that worrying headlines can sometimes lead people to stop taking their statins without speaking to anyone first. While that reaction is understandable, stopping suddenly can increase your risk of a heart attack or even a stroke, especially if you were prescribed them because you’re already at higher risk.
If you ever feel unsure, that’s exactly what we’re here for. A quick conversation with one of our pharmacists can make all the difference. Together, we can look at what’s best for you and make sure your treatment plan feels safe, manageable and right for your health.
Lifestyle Changes:
While statins can play an important role in protecting your heart, they work best as part of a bigger picture.
Simple, everyday habits still make a real difference, eating a balanced diet, staying active in a way that suits you, stopping smoking, and keeping your blood pressure under control all help to reduce your overall risk of heart disease.
Statins aren’t a replacement for a healthy lifestyle, they’re an extra layer of protection. Even small changes such as adding more fruit and vegetables to your meals or taking a daily walk can have a positive impact over time.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I have to take statins for life? In many cases, statins are prescribed long term because they help continuously reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke. However, treatment is always reviewed regularly. If your health changes, your GP may reassess what’s right for you. It’s important not to stop taking them without medical advice.
Can I drink alcohol while taking statins? Most people can drink alcohol in moderation while taking statins. However, because statins are processed by the liver, heavy drinking isn’t recommended. If you’re unsure what’s safe for you, it’s always worth checking with a healthcare professional.
What time of day should I take my statins? This can depend on the type of statin you’re prescribed. Some work best when taken in the evening, while others can be taken at any time of day. The most important thing is taking it consistently. If you’re unsure, speak with your GP or pharmacist.
Coda Pharmacy is here to support you every step of the way. From offering expert advice to delivering your NHS prescriptions free of charge. If you have any questions about what you have read in this article or any of the services that Coda Pharmacy can provide you with, please do not hesitate to reach out and contact us here.
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