Statins and muscle pain |
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Authors: | Joseph V Pergolizzi Jr Flaminia Coluzzi Robert D Colucci Hanna Olsson Jo Ann LeQuang |
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Institution: | 1. NEMA Research, Inc., Naples, FL, USA;2. Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Unit of Anaesthesia, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy;3. Colucci &4. Associates, LLC, Newtown, Connecticut, USA;5. Centre for Research and Development, Region G?vleborg/Uppsala University, G?vle, Sweden |
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Abstract: | ABSTRACTIntroduction: Statins remain among the most frequently prescribed drugs and constitute a cornerstone in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. However, muscle symptoms are often reported from patients on statins. Muscle symptoms are frequently reported as adverse events associated with statin therapy.Areas covered: In the present narrative review, statin-associated muscle pain is discussed. It elucidates potential mechanisms and possible targets for management.Expert opinion: In general, the evidence in support of muscle pain caused by statins is in some cases equivocal and not particularly strong. Reported symptoms are difficult to quantify. Rarely is it possible to establish a causal link between statins and muscle pain. In randomized controlled trials, statins are well tolerated, and muscle-pain related side-effects is similar to placebo. There are also nocebo effects of statins. Exchange of statin may be beneficial although all statins have been associated with muscle pain. In some patients reduction of dose is worth trying, especially in primary prevention Although the benefits of statins outweigh potential risks in the vast majority of cases, careful clinical judgment may be necessary in certain cases to manage potential side effects on an individual basis. |
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Keywords: | Adverse events cardiovascular disease statin muscle pain myalgia side effects |
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