Heart Health
Statins linked to leg pain but not weakness
High doses of the statin drug atorvastatin (Lipitor) cause muscle pain in a small number of healthy people, but are not associated with muscle weakness, according to a study in Circulation.
Many people take statins to lower "bad" LDL cholesterol. Studies suggest that 10% to 15% of people on statins develop muscle-related symptoms, including pain, cramps, and weakness. But so many people take statins that some of the reported muscle complaints may be just coincidence.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
