Statins are a class of drugs that are widely used to lower cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular disease. However, some people who take statins for a long time may experience adverse reactions. This article will educate people about which groups of people are more likely to have adverse effects of statins and how to use statins safely.
1. Overview of adverse reactions of statins
Statins reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by inhibiting cholesterol synthesis in the liver and lowering blood levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Although statins have achieved significant clinical efficacy, some patients may experience adverse reactions during use, including muscle pain, abnormal liver function, and digestive discomfort.
2. People who are prone to adverse reactions
1. The elderly
As they age, older people may experience a decline in liver and kidney function and a weakened ability to metabolize and excrete statins, making them more prone to adverse effects.
2. Female population
Women, especially postmenopausal, may be less tolerant of statins due to changes in hormone levels and are more likely to experience adverse effects such as muscle pain.
3. Patients with liver insufficiency
Statins are metabolized in the liver, so the accumulation of the drug in the body may increase the risk of adverse reactions when people with liver insufficiency take statins.
4. Patients with renal insufficiency
Renal insufficiency can affect the excretion of statins, increase the concentration of the drug in the body, and thus increase the likelihood of adverse reactions.
5. People with thin body size
Thin people may be less tolerant of statins and more prone to adverse effects due to their lower body weight.
6. People taking a variety of drugs
People who take multiple medications at the same time, especially those that interact with statins (such as certain antibiotics, antifungal drugs, immunosuppressants, etc.), may increase the risk of adverse effects.
7. People who drink too much
Long-term alcohol consumption can impair liver function, affect the metabolism of statins, and increase the incidence of adverse reactions.
8. People with specific genetic factors
Due to genetic factors, some populations have poor metabolism of statins and are prone to adverse reactions.
3. How to use statins safely
1. Use under the guidance of a doctor
Before using statins, you should consult your doctor to determine a reasonable treatment plan based on your health and cardiovascular risk.
2. Regular monitoring
Patients taking statins for a long time should have regular liver function, renal function, and muscle enzyme levels tested so that adverse effects can be detected and managed in a timely manner.
3. Comply with the dosage of medication
Take statins exactly as your doctor directs, and don't increase or decrease the dose or stop taking it on your own.
4. Pay attention to drug interactions
Tell your doctor about all medications you're taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and supplements, to avoid drug interactions.
5. Improve your lifestyle
Reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and reduce dependence on statins through a healthy diet, moderate exercise, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol.