What are the serious side effects of rosuvastatin mentioned by the NHS?

The NHS warns of serious side effects including unexplained muscle pain, jaundice, pale poo, dark pee, persistent cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, and skin rashes. Severe breathing or swallowing problems are also critical.

When should someone stop taking rosuvastatin and call a doctor?

Individuals should stop taking rosuvastatin and call a doctor or 111 if they experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, weakness, jaundice, pale stools, dark urine, or symptoms indicative of lung disease or acute pancreatitis.

How common are serious side effects from rosuvastatin?

Serious side effects from rosuvastatin are rare, occurring in less than one in 1,000 people.

Home / Health / NHS: Common Statin Side Effects Require Immediate Doctor Call

NHS: Common Statin Side Effects Require Immediate Doctor Call

31 Jan

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Summary

Urgent advice issued for millions taking rosuvastatin statin medication.
Serious side effects, though rare, include muscle breakdown and liver issues.
Patients experiencing specific symptoms should stop medication and seek help.

NHS: Common Statin Side Effects Require Immediate Doctor Call

An urgent warning has been issued by the NHS for individuals taking rosuvastatin, a widely prescribed statin medication in the UK. An estimated seven to eight million adults use statins to lower 'bad' cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Rosuvastatin specifically works by reducing cholesterol production in the liver.

While generally safe, rosuvastatin can cause rare but serious side effects affecting less than one in 1,000 people. These include unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, which may signal muscle breakdown and kidney damage. Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), pale stools, and dark urine could indicate liver problems.

Furthermore, symptoms like persistent cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain may suggest lung disease. Acute pancreatitis is another potential serious reaction. The NHS strongly advises stopping rosuvastatin and seeking immediate medical attention, including calling 111 or a doctor, if any of these severe symptoms arise.