Is memory loss from statins reversible?
In most reports, the main symptom related to statins was short-term memory loss that occurred a few months after the start of statin therapy or after a dosage increase. Cognitive impairment was usually reversible upon discontinuation of statin therapy.
Can statins bring on dementia?
Although this particular study found no link between statins and dementia, the research into statins and brain-related effects over all is best described as inconsistent, says Dr. JoAnn Manson, chief of the Division of Preventive Medicine at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
What are the bad side effects of statins?
Side effects can vary between different statins, but common side effects include:
- headache.
- dizziness.
- feeling sick.
- feeling unusually tired or physically weak.
- digestive system problems, such as constipation, diarrhoea, indigestion or farting.
- muscle pain.
- sleep problems.
- low blood platelet count.
Can statins cause mental confusion?
The FDA warns on statin labels that some people have developed memory loss or confusion while taking statins. These side effects reverse once you stop taking the medication.
Are statins bad for your brain?
“We reviewed all the studies that had been done, and found that the most rigorous studies show that statins do not commonly cause memory loss. If anything, long-term use of statins might have a beneficial effect on the brain since they help prevent strokes and protect the health of arteries in the brain.”
Do statins cause cognitive problems?
Increased exposure to statin medication has been shown to cause cognitive side effects. High doses and poor metabolism can lead to increased exposure to medications. The dose dependent cognitive impairment relationship reported in the atorvastatin safety study [13] suggests that high doses cause cognitive side effects.
What happens if you forget to take your cholesterol medicine?
If you forget to take your dose, do not take an extra one to make up for it. Just take your next dose as usual the following day. If you accidentally take too many statin tablets (more than your usual daily dose), contact a doctor or pharmacist for advice or call NHS 111.
Do statins affect thinking?
Does high cholesterol cause memory loss?
“High cholesterol levels in the blood can predispose the deposition of plaque in the blood vessels,” says Connor, a specialist in atherosclerosis (the process by which deposits build up in arteries). And, he adds, “stroke can result in memory loss.”
Is there connection between statins and memory loss?
The researchers found no evidence that using statins caused memory loss or dementia. In fact, there was some evidence that long-term statin use may protect against dementia. Scientists believe this is because certain types of dementia are caused by small blockages in blood vessels that carry blood to the brain.
Can statins reduce risk of memory loss?
Some large studies have shown no effect, and have implied that statins pose no threat to short-term memory and may, in fact, prevent dementia. Others have found an association between statin use and memory loss and confusion, prompting the FDA to order labeling changes on all statins.
Does memory return after stopping statins?
The FDA warns on statin labels that some people have developed memory loss or confusion while taking statins. These side effects reverse once you stop taking the medication.
Are Statins worth the risk?
Statin side effects aren’t worth the risk, especially because lowering your cholesterol doesn’t actually make much of a difference when it comes to heart disease. You’re better off focusing on lowering inflammation.