Statinsare a group of cholesterol-lowering medications.
Muscle pain associated with statins may be mild, uncomfortable, or significant enough to impact daily life.
In rare cases, the drugs can have a serious impact on the muscles.
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This article explores symptoms of statin-related muscle pain and why it happens.
It also covers the diagnosis of statin-related muscle pain and treatment.
Symptoms of Statin-Related Muscle Pain
SAMS can vary in frequency and severity.
The muscles most affected by statins include those in the shoulders, arms, hips, or thighs.
Muscle problems related to statin therapy usually begin within a few weeks to a few months after beginning treatment.
Why Do Statins Cause Muscle Pain?
While there are several theories on why statins may cause muscle pain, none have been confirmed.
Research has shown that the gene atrogin-1 may be the source of muscle pain in thosetaking statins.
(When the atrogin-1 gene is not active, muscle wasting does not occur.)
Some experts have reported that administering vitamin D to these people helps ease these symptoms.
How Do I Know if My Muscle Pain Is From Statins?
They also reduce the chance of stroke and heart attack.
Because of these benefits, the decision to stop taking statins because of related muscle pain is carefully considered.
If you have started statins and experience muscle pain, see your healthcare provider.
If detected, statins will be stopped immediately.
How Do You Stop Muscle Pain From Statins?
They may suggest stopping treatment only briefly until the problem resolves, or not at all.
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