Statin associated muscle symptoms in older adults

Abstract

Introduction: Statins are strongly recommended to reduce major adverse cardiovascular events, making them widely prescribed by health-care providers. Despite this, statins are underutilized in older adults (≥65 years of age), partially related to the fear of adverse effects. Statin associated muscle symptoms (SAMS) are commonly cited as a reason for statin discontinuation.

Areas covered: This review discusses the incidence, contributing factors, and clinical trial data surrounding SAMS in older adults. An approach to treating older adults with SAMS is proposed.

Expert opinion: Treating older adults who experience SAMS is challenging. Utilizing shared decision-making, patients who experience SAMS may be successfully rechallenged with a statin. If a patient is unable to tolerate a statin, non-statin therapeutic options can be considered to reduce cholesterol and improve cardiovascular outcomes.

Keywords: Older adults; hyperlipidemia; nocebo; statin associated muscle symptoms; statin intolerance; statins.