Do statins cause memory loss or dementia?

No, a landmark study found incontrovertible evidence that statins do not cause memory loss, dementia, or other cognitive issues.

Why might millions of people avoid taking statins?

Decades of misleading information and incorrect links to side effects like depression and weight gain may have deterred millions from taking statins.

How do statins benefit high-risk individuals?

Statins can slash the risk of heart attacks and strokes by up to half for those identified as being at the highest risk.

Home / Health / Statins Safe: Study Debunks Major Side Effect Fears

Statins Safe: Study Debunks Major Side Effect Fears

6 Feb

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Summary

Landmark study finds cholesterol drugs do not cause memory loss or depression.
Millions may be avoiding statins due to decades of misleading information.
Experts call for updated advice to reflect new evidence on statin safety.

Statins Safe: Study Debunks Major Side Effect Fears

New research from Oxford University offers compelling evidence that statins, widely prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications, are not responsible for many of the side effects commonly listed in their leaflets. The study found no link between statins and conditions like memory loss, dementia, depression, or weight gain, challenging decades of patient concerns and potentially misleading information.

This significant finding suggests that millions of individuals who could benefit from statins may be avoiding them unnecessarily. Experts highlight that these drugs are proven to significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes by up to 50% for those most vulnerable. The British Heart Foundation's Chief Scientific and Medical Officer praised the study, emphasizing that while some patients experience adverse effects, they are often unrelated to statin treatment. This powerful message aims to encourage reconsideration of statin therapy for the estimated 50% of eligible patients currently not receiving it.