Researchers at the Menzies Research Institute have discovered that the use of statins, a class of drugs commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol, could be increasing the risk of falls in older people.

Researchers at the Menzies Research Institute have discovered that the use of statins, a class of drugs commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol, could be increasing the risk of falls in older people.

Professor Graeme Jones, Head of Menzies' Musculoskeletal Unit says these findings have not previously been demonstrated in other research.

The study recently published in QJM: An International Journal of Medicine has shown statins can cause decline in muscle function, resulting in significantly weaker leg strength, and it was found people who used statins had a 15 per cent higher falls risk score compared to non-users.

"Given that both the consequences of falling and the likelihood of statin use are greater in older adults, this finding has implications for both older adults and health professionals," Professor Jones said.

PhD student and first author of the paper David Scott says the good news is that these effects may be reversible.

"Our results showed that those people who ceased statin use during the study period demonstrated improvements in muscle strength and quality," David Scott said.

In Australia, statins have previously been considered very safe, with few side effects. It is believed earlier studies on statin use and muscle function, had very few subjects, may have been too short and measured the wrong parameters.

"Whilst the observed associations are modest, the associations between statin use and muscle performance require further examination given the high prevalence of statin use amongst the older adult population," David Scott said.  

Statin users should note that these results need to be verified with future research and patients should continue to take medications as prescribed by their doctor. However, if you experience muscle pain or weakness it may be worthwhile discussing this with your GP.

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Fiona Horwood
Communications Manager
Menzies Research Institute
Phone: (03) 6226 7751

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