While many people do not experience problems while taking
statins, adverse effects are possible. Some of the most common problems with statins include:
If problems do occur, they tend to be minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. However, there are some potentially serious adverse effects with statins that require immediate medical attention. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience serious problems such as:
- Signs of liver damage, such as:
- Yellowing of the whites of the eyes or skin (jaundice)
- Upper-right abdominal pain (stomach pain)
- Dark urine
- Elevated liver enzymes
- Muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if you also have a fever or feel ill, which may be signs of serious breakdown of muscle, known as rhabdomyolysis
- Significant, unexplained changes in the amount of urine you produce (which may be a sign of kidney problems)
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
- A rash
- Itching
- Hives
- Wheezing or difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat.
(Click Statin Side Effects for more information on adverse effects, including those problems that may require immediate medical attention.)