There are a number of side effects that could occur as a result of taking statins. Some side effects are more serious than others and require patients to immediately contact their physician. These side effects include muscle pain or tenderness and dark urine. Statins also may result in the development of abnormal liver function, which is diagnosed by a liver enzyme test.

A very rare, but potentially fatal, side effect of statins is rhabdomyolysis, a severe muscle reaction. Rhabdomyolysis is a condition in which muscle cells break down, releasing their contents into the bloodstream. It most often affects the muscles in the back or lower calves. Some patients report no symptoms, and in rare cases rhabdomyolysis can lead to kidney or other organ failure and death. Patients should report any of the following symptoms of rhabdomyolysis to their physicians immediately:

• Muscle cramps, pain, swelling, weakness, stiffness and/or tenderness
• Fever
• Brown or dark-colored urine
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Malaise (a general feeling of illness or discomfort)

Physicians monitor for this condition by measuring the blood level of the muscle enzyme called creatine phosphokinase (CPK). Risk of this severe complication appears to be higher in elderly patients, those taking high doses of statins and those taking statins in conjunction with other cholesterol-reducing drug called fibrates. In August 2001, one type of statin, called cerivastatin (brand name “Baycol”), was voluntarily withdrawn from the market by its manufacturer due to reports that fatal cases of rhabdomyolysis had been significantly more common with cerivastatin than with other approved statin drugs.

Other less serious side effects that may be seen in some patients taking stations include the following:

• Allergic reaction (new onset of wheezing, respiratory congestion, itching or skin rashes)
• Decreased sexual interest or ability
• Difficulty sleeping
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Excessive gas or belching
• Headache
• Heartburn or indigestion
• Nausea or vomiting or abdominal pain
• Skin rash