Statins: what they do and common side effects explained.

A Lancet analysis of 123,940 people across 19 trials found most commonly reported statin side-effects were not shown to be caused by the medication, and UK clinicians outlined how statins are prescribed and monitored.

A large analysis published in The Lancet found that most side-effects commonly linked to statins were not shown to be caused by the drugs. The study pooled data from 123,940 people across 19 clinical trials with an average follow-up of 4.5 years. The findings were discussed with Sindy Jodar, senior cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation, to explain how statins are used and monitored in the UK. Statins are medicines that reduce LDL cholesterol and aim to lower the risk of heart attack and stroke. Key facts: - The Lancet analysis reviewed 123,940 participants from 19 placebo-controlled trials with an average follow-up of 4.5 years and reported no significant increased risk for almost all conditions listed as potential side-effects, including depression, sleep problems, fatigue and headaches. - Statins lower LDL (often called "bad" cholesterol) and can reduce plaque build-up in arteries, which is intended to lower the risk of heart attack and stroke, according to the British Heart Foundation. - Five statin types commonly prescribed in the UK are atorvastatin, fluvastatin, pravastatin, rosuvastatin and simvastatin. - Clinicians typically prescribe statins based on a risk calculation that includes height, weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, medical and family history; patients with a calculated 10-year cardiovascular risk of 10% or more are commonly offered treatment. - Patients usually have blood tests before starting statins and again within six to 12 months to check cholesterol levels and liver enzymes; clinicians note some circumstances where statins may be unsuitable, and certain interactions (for example with grapefruit) are reported. Summary: The Lancet study reduces the evidence linking many commonly reported complaints directly to statin treatment. In UK practice, clinicians use risk calculators and follow-up testing when prescribing and reviewing statins. Undetermined at this time.