Statins are recommended for everyone with known heart disease, people with very high LDL cholesterol and middle-aged adults with type 2 diabetes. Statins are also recommended for people without previous heart problems, but who have a risk of 7, 5% or more of heart attack or stroke in the next 10 years. As with most medications, taking statins can have side effects and if you suffer from any of these four gastrointestinal symptoms, you should speak to your doctor.
In a study published in the American College of Cardiology, the side effects of statins were investigated. https://www.acc.org/latest-in-cardiology/articles/2015/08/11/09/16/statin-intolerance-not-a-myth
The study noted: “Statins are one of the most commonly prescribed drugs.
“They are generally well tolerated and prevent cardiovascular events.
“However, as with all drugs, they can have adverse effects.”
The study found that side effects associated with the gastrointestinal tract include constipation, diarrhea, dyspepsia, flatulence, heartburn, nausea and vomiting.
“In elderly patients, who are at increased risk of intolerance to statins, treatment should be started as clinically appropriate, especially if the benefits of preventing cardiovascular disease outweigh the potential risks,” he added.
It is worthwhile to stop statins for a few weeks to see if the symptoms go away – there may be another cause for your symptoms, said Dr. Sarah Jarvis.
She continued, “If they do, talk to your doctor about the options above.
“Anyone who feels very severe muscle pain and weakness should see their doctor urgently – there is a very rare, but potentially very serious, side effect of statins called rhabdomyolysis.”