Statins are far safer than feared, Landmark review finds: Why Experts say Millions shouldn’t stop taking them
Major study finds statins much safer than feared
Statins, one of the world’s most widely prescribed medicines, are far safer than many patients believe, according to a landmark review published in The Lancet, prompting renewed calls for drug information leaflets to be urgently revised.
The findings challenge long-standing fears around statin side effects and could help reverse declining use of the cholesterol-lowering drugs, which are proven to significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular deaths.
The comprehensive analysis examined data from 19 randomised controlled trials involving more than 120,000 people, comparing statins with placebo pills. Crucially, neither patients nor doctors knew who was taking the real medication, eliminating bias.
Most Listed Statin Side Effects Not Caused by the Drugs
Researchers found that 62 out of 66 side effects currently listed on statin information leaflets are not supported by strong evidence.
Commonly feared problems such as memory loss, depression, sleep disturbance, nerve pain, impotence, and weight gain occurred at almost identical rates in people taking statins and those given a placebo.
This suggests that many reported symptoms may be linked to the “nocebo effect”, where negative expectations about a drug trigger symptoms rather than the medication itself.
According to the researchers, this widespread misunderstanding has discouraged millions of people from starting or continuing statin therapy, despite clear benefits.
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Only Four Side Effects Linked to Statins, and the Risk Is Small
Out of dozens of potential adverse effects listed, the review found evidence for just four statin-related side effects, and even these occurred in a very small proportion of patients:
- Changes in liver blood test results
- Minor liver abnormalities
- Changes in urine
- Tissue swelling, including swollen ankles
Importantly, there was no increased risk of serious liver disease, such as hepatitis or liver failure. Experts say this confirms that routine liver test changes rarely lead to long-term harm.
Statins can also rarely cause muscle damage and a small rise in blood sugar, which may accelerate diabetes in people already at risk, but these effects are uncommon and well-monitored.
Why Experts Say Statins Still Save Lives
Statins lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, a major contributor to cardiovascular disease, the world’s leading cause of death, responsible for around 10 million deaths globally each year.
In the UK alone, cardiovascular disease accounts for one in four deaths, making statins one of the most important preventive medicines in modern healthcare.
Prof Christina Reith of Oxford University, the study’s lead author, said persistent fear around side effects had led many patients to stop taking statins unnecessarily.
“Ongoing confusion and concern mean many people are not willing to start statins or stop them altogether. This is a major public health issue,” she said.
Calls to Update Statin Warning Labels
Senior author Prof Sir Rory Collins said drug information leaflets no longer reflect the scientific evidence and may be actively harming patients by discouraging treatment.
“Now that we know statins do not cause the majority of side effects listed, statin information requires rapid revision to help patients and doctors make better-informed decisions,” he said.
The British Heart Foundation, which funded part of the research, welcomed the findings, calling them a powerful counter to years of misinformation surrounding statins.
What Patients Should Do Next
Experts stress that no one should stop taking statins without speaking to their doctor. While side effects can occur, the review confirms that for most people, the benefits overwhelmingly outweigh the risks.
Doctors say better communication, rather than fear-based leaflets, is key to ensuring patients remain protected against heart disease and stroke.
FAQ
Are statins safe to take long term?
Yes. Large clinical trials involving over 120,000 people show statins are safe for long-term use, with serious side effects being rare.
Do statins cause memory loss or depression?
No strong evidence supports this. Studies show rates of memory problems and depression are similar in people taking statins and those on placebo.
What are the real side effects of statins?
Only four side effects — mild liver test changes, minor liver abnormalities, urine changes, and tissue swelling — are linked to statins, and these affect very few patients.
Can statins cause muscle pain?
Muscle problems can occur, but they are rare and often mild. Severe muscle damage is extremely uncommon.
Do statins increase diabetes risk?
Statins can slightly raise blood sugar levels and may bring forward diabetes in people already at risk, but the overall risk is small compared to the cardiovascular benefits.
Why do statin leaflets list so many side effects?
Many listed side effects are based on early reports rather than strong evidence. Experts now say leaflets should be updated to reflect modern research.
Should I stop taking statins if I feel unwell?
No. Always speak to your doctor first. Stopping statins without medical advice can significantly increase your risk of heart attack or stroke.
Who benefits most from statins?
People with high cholesterol, previous heart disease or stroke, diabetes, or multiple cardiovascular risk factors benefit most from statin therapy.