Drugs for Dyslipidaemia
- The side effects of HMG‐CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) include myalgia, dizziness, myopathy and dose-related rhabdomyolysis.1
- One study suggested an association between statin use and lower dynamic leaning balance which may potentially increase fall risk.2
- It failed to confirm associations between use of statins and reduced muscle strength, postural sway and mobility.2
- Another study has reported a potential association between statin therapy and the decline in muscle strength and quality, and the increase in falls risk in older adults.3
- However, this association may be reversible upon statin cessation.3
- Review any medications that can interact with statins and use alternative statin with less drug interactions if possible. If drug-statin combination cannot be avoided, use lowest effective dose of statin, monitor for adverse effects and measure creatine kinase when indicated.1
- Switch to low doses of atorvastatin or rosuvastatin, when possible, which are associated with lower prevalence of drug interaction.1
- Add a bile acid binding resin (in low dosage), ezetimibe or a sterol margarine to further reduce LDL if cholesterol levels are not adequately controlled.1
References
Australian Medicines Handbook 2016. Adelaide: Australian Medicines Handbook Pty Ltd; 2015 January.
Haerer W, Delbaere K, Bartlett H, Lord S, Rowland J. Relationships between HMG‐CoA reductase inhibitors (statin) use and strength, balance and falls in older people. J Intern Med. 2012; 42(12):1329-34.
Scott D, Blizzard L, Fell J, Jones G. Statin therapy, muscle function and falls risk in community-dwelling older adults. Q J Med. 2009;102(9):625-33.