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Review
. 2024 Jul;26(7):260-268.
doi: 10.1007/s11926-024-01143-y. Epub 2024 Apr 5.

Decoding the Intricacies of Statin-Associated Muscle Symptoms

Tara Fallah Rastegar  1 , Imtiaz Ahmed Khan  2 , Lisa Christopher-Stine  3
Affiliations
Review

Decoding the Intricacies of Statin-Associated Muscle Symptoms

Tara Fallah Rastegar et al. Curr Rheumatol Rep. 2024 Jul.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Hyperlipidemia is the major cardiovascular morbidity and mortality risk factor. Statins are the first-line treatment for hyperlipidemia. Statin-associated muscle symptoms (SAMS) are the main reason for the discontinuation of statins among patients. The purpose of this review is to guide clinicians to recognize the difference between self-limited and autoimmune statin myopathy in addition to the factors that potentiate them. Finally, treatment strategies will be discussed. This review mostly focuses on new data in the past 3 years.

Recent findings: Recent findings suggest that SAMS is a complex and multifactorial condition that involves mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and immune-mediated mechanisms. Effective management of SAMS requires a thorough evaluation of the patient's symptoms, risk factors, and medication history, as well as consideration of alternative treatment options. While statins are effective in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events, their use is associated with a range of adverse effects, including SAMS.

Keywords: SAMS; Self-limited statin toxicity; Statin intolerance; Statin myopathy; Statin-induced IMNM; Statins (HMG CoA reductase inhibitors).

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References

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