Statins found safer than earlier concerns in major review

A Lancet review of trials involving more than 120,000 people found few side effects linked to statins and reported similar adverse-event rates in placebo groups; serious liver disease was not increased.

Researchers report in The Lancet that a major review found few side effects linked to statin pills. The review pooled trials involving more than 120,000 people who took either statins or a placebo. Statins are described as highly effective at lowering LDL cholesterol and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. The analysis aimed to assess reported harms alongside the known benefits of the drugs. Key findings: - The review drew on trials with over 120,000 participants comparing statins with placebo. - Reports of adverse effects were almost identical in the statin and placebo groups. - Only four of 66 listed side-effects showed any association with statin use, and then only in a small proportion of patients. - There was no observed increase in liver disease such as hepatitis or liver failure. - Rare harms noted included occasional muscle damage and a small rise in blood sugar that might bring on diabetes sooner in people who are susceptible. Summary: The review reinforces evidence that statins reduce LDL cholesterol and lower cardiovascular risk while reporting few side effects. Undetermined at this time.