Doctors have been uncertain about the side effects of statin-type cholesterol-lowering drugs because randomized clinical trials conducted by drug companies have shown relatively few adverse muscle reactions. A new study in JAMA Internal Medicine suggests that muscle strains, sprains are far more common than previously reported. Other soft tissue injuries such as dislocations, tendinitis and joint pain were also surprisingly common among statin users.
The subjects were active duty soldiers, veterans and their families. This study comes on the heels of research showing that statins can blunt the fitness benefits of exercise. The investigators warn, “The increased risk of injury in our population suggests that statin therapy may compromise soldiers’ musculoskeletal preparedness.” We can only wonder how such drugs may affect the muscles of less fit, older individuals.
[JAMA Internal Medicine, online, June 3, 2013]
You can learn more about the pros and cons of statins from our radio show, Cholesterol Controversy.
