Statins are commonly prescribed cholesterol medications for people with CAD or coronary artery disease. It is also used to reduce the risk of cardiac arrest in heart patients. There are many Statin drugs available; among them are Lipitor, Lescol, Pravachol, Mevacor, Zocor and Crestor. This drug has many benefits, which include stabilizing plaques in a person’s arteries, reducing inflammation, lowering cholesterol levels and decreasing clotting in veins among other things.

Who uses Statins?
People with heart ailments are prescribed Statins to lower their cholesterol levels. This also works as a method for weight control but should not be taken by people who want to lose weight but do not have existing heart problems. Patients who cannot take Statins however are given an alternative drug to reduce cholesterol levels.

There are many potential side effects of Statins and muscular problems are one of them. According to the American Journal of Cardiovascular Drugs, Statins can also lead to pain in the extremities along with cognitive problems. Cognitive problems refer to the difficulty in focusing on what you are doing.

Gastrointestinal effects such as an upset stomach, gas and nausea are also among the side effects. Some patients experience headaches, rashes, inadequate sleep and dizziness. Reports show that people prescribed Statins occasionally experience liver enzymes elevation. There is very little proof however that the drug can cause permanent liver damage.

One of the scariest potential side effects of this drug is the increase in the risk of cancer but this is highly debatable because there are some studies that suggest the opposite to be true.

The side effects can vary depending on the dosage of drug. Apart from that, every brand has a different intensity in terms of adverse effects.  Studies from different universities in the United States are still ongoing to determine the extent of the effects of using Statins.