What is the most common adverse effect of statins?

The most common adverse effect of statins is myalgia, which refers to muscle pain or discomfort. Statins are widely used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. While they can lead to various side effects, myalgia is notably the most frequently reported.

The mechanism behind statin-induced myalgia is not entirely understood but may relate to muscle cell metabolism and energy production processes being affected by the drug. Patients often report mild to moderate muscle weakness or discomfort, which can lead to discontinuation of therapy in some cases. Recognizing myalgia as the most common adverse effect is significant for healthcare providers, as they can better monitor patients on statins and address their concerns, improving adherence to therapy while managing cardiovascular risk factors effectively.

In comparison to myalgia, memory loss can be reported by some patients taking statins, but it is less common and not as consistently linked to statin therapy. Gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea or constipation, may occur as well, but they are also not as prevalent as muscle-related symptoms. Rhabdomyolysis, while a serious condition associated with statin use, is extremely rare and represents a severe form of muscle damage. As such, myalgia stands out as the most commonly