Study Finds Most Statin Side-Effects Are Not Caused by the Drugs

A major review finds statins do not cause most side-effects listed on medicine labels. Researchers analysed 19 trials involving 124,000 people and published the results in The Lancet. Evidence supported only muscle pain, diabetes risk, and four minor effects, including liver test changes and tissue swelling. The study found no strong link between statins and memory loss, depression, sleep problems, or nerve damage. Lead author Christina Reith said benefits far outweigh risks for most patients. Experts called for updated labels to counter misinformation and support informed decisions.