Major analysis finds statins rarely cause side effects despite long-standing public fear

Statin drugs taken by millions of people are far safer than widely believed, according to a major scientific review that challenges years of concern and confusion surrounding their use.

The findings suggest that most of the side effects commonly listed on statin information leaflets are not caused by the medication at all. Researchers say this misinformation may have discouraged many people from taking drugs that significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

The review analysed data from clinical trials involving more than 120,000 people who were randomly assigned either statins or a placebo pill. None of the participants knew which treatment they were receiving. The trials compared reported side effects between the two groups and found striking similarities.

Rates of symptoms such as memory loss, depression, sleep disturbance, weight gain and sexual problems were almost identical in people taking statins and those taking dummy pills. This strongly suggests that statins themselves are not responsible for most of the problems patients fear.

Researchers found that only four of the 66 side effects commonly listed had any association with statin use, and even these occurred in only a very small number of patients. These included minor liver-related blood test changes, slight liver abnormalities, urine changes and tissue swelling.

Crucially, the review found no increase in serious liver disease such as hepatitis or liver failure. The liver test changes observed did not translate into lasting harm or clinical illness.

Statins are proven to lower levels of LDL cholesterol, often referred to as bad cholesterol. High LDL cholesterol is a major contributor to cardiovascular disease, which causes around 10 million deaths worldwide each year and accounts for roughly a quarter of all deaths in the UK.

While statins can occasionally cause muscle damage or slightly raise blood sugar levels, the review confirms that these effects are rare. In some cases, higher blood sugar may bring forward the onset of diabetes in people already at risk, but this occurs infrequently and does not outweigh the cardiovascular benefits.

The researchers warn that persistent fears about statins have led many people to avoid starting treatment or to stop taking it altogether. This has serious consequences for public health.

Lead author Professor Christina Reith said confusion about statin safety remains widespread and damaging. She explained that many people experience symptoms while taking statins, but high-quality evidence now shows the drugs are not the cause of the most commonly blamed problems.

She said the benefits of statins far outweigh the risks for the vast majority of patients, and that clearer information is urgently needed.

Senior author Professor Sir Rory Collins said the study demonstrates that current patient information is misleading. He argued that drug leaflets should be updated quickly so patients and doctors can make decisions based on reliable evidence rather than fear.

The British Heart Foundation, which funded the research, welcomed the findings. Professor Bryan Williams said negative publicity had distorted prescribing practices and left many people missing out on life-saving treatment.

He said the results should offer powerful reassurance and help restore confidence among both doctors and patients.

Experts emphasise that statins save lives, but also stress that anyone experiencing problems while taking medication should speak to their doctor rather than stopping treatment without advice.

The review highlights a growing gap between public perception and scientific evidence. For millions of people at risk of heart disease, the findings may mark a turning point in how statins are understood and used.