Why do doctors prescribe statins when researchers say not to take them?

Hello

Statins are indeed being blamed for certain side effects. Muscle pain and inflammation are among them. Taken in isolation, the information provided by some researchers could lead us to believe that statins should never be recommended for use. What you need to know is that statins are proven effective and therefore indicated in many situations (after a heart attack, in people with high cholesterol, etc.). Therefore, the information must be personalized.

It is generally recommended that you try taking the statin when your doctor feels it is appropriate. If you then experience side effects, the pharmacist and doctor can modify the statin to allow you to benefit fully from its effect without suffering from side effects.

As for alternatives to the statin, you should know that to date, this class of medication is the only one that treats cholesterol and has proven to reduce mortality in the long term. That's why your doctor is so willing to prescribe it, and your pharmacist is so willing to have you take it (if there are no side effects).

We look forward to seeing you,

Alexandre Chagnon, pharmacist