Dr Chris: Statins could reduce breast cancer deaths by 40%
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Statins work by slowing down the production of LDL in the liver.
They are normally recommended “if you have cardiovascular disease or a high risk of developing it in the next 10 years” says the NHS.
Statins are not often used on their own, they’re not a silver bullet for high cholesterol.
Normally the medication is taken in tandem with lifestyle improvements such as an improved diet, regular exercise, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol consumption.
Just like other medications, statins can result in some side effects, one of which you might notice at night. The NHS says sleep problems are a common side effect of statin use.
The health says other common side effects include headaches, dizziness; nausea; feeling unusually tired or weak; constipation; diarrhoea; indigestion; farting; muscle pain and a low blood platelet count.
Uncommon side effects include:
• Vomiting
• Memory problems
• Hair loss
• Pins and needles
• Hepatitis
• Pancreatitis
• Skin problems
• Loss of libido
• Erectile Dysfunction.
How to respond
On side effects the NHS suggests: “If you find certain side effects particularly troublesome, talk to the doctor in charge of your care.
“Your dose may need to be adjusted or you may need a different type of statin”.
Since there is more than one type of statin, side effects could vary from statin to statin.
The precise nature of the side effects that could occur will be present on the leaflet that is present with every packet of medication.
If a symptom arises that isn’t mentioned, there is a way for people to report it.
This is through the MHRA’s Yellow Card Scheme.
Set up in 1964, it is a way for the public to report problems with medication and medicinal products.
After a review, the MHRA will decide whether or not to take action.
During the pandemic, a Covid specific Yellow Card Scheme was launched.
Through this portal the public was able to report side effects and problems with COVID-19-related vaccines and equipment.
Whether or not this continues on its own or is incorporated into the wider scheme is yet to be seen.
For more information on statins contact the NHS or consult with your GP.
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