Consequences of Not Taking Statins

 Statins are a group of cholesterol-lowering drugs that can reduce the risk of heart disease, heart attack, stroke, and even cardiovascular disease deaths by 25% or more

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. However, a new study by Harvard researchers suggests that one in five people with cardiovascular disease or diabetes declines to take a recommended statin drug

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. Here are some consequences of not taking statins:

1. Increased risk of cardiovascular disease: The study found that harmful LDL cholesterol levels were higher in people who declined to take statins, thereby further increasing their risk of cardiovascular disease
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2. Increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and death: Suddenly stopping your statin is dangerous. Data shows that the risk of stroke, heart attack, and death within 4 years of stopping a statin is high
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3. Muscle pain, digestive problems, and mental fuzziness: While statins are highly effective and safe for most people, they have been linked to muscle pain, digestive problems, and mental fuzziness in some people who take them and may rarely cause liver damage
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4. Increased risk of diabetes: Some research has shown a link between statin use and a higher risk of diabetes, but that observation doesn't necessarily prove a cause-and-effect relationship. However, in a small number of people, statins may raise blood sugar levels—potentially enough to trigger a new diagnosis of diabetes
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It's important to note that around 85–90% of people who take statins don’t experience any side effects

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. If you are experiencing side effects, you should talk to your doctor about adjusting your dosage or trying a different medication

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. However, suddenly stopping your statin is not recommended and can be dangerous

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. If you are considering stopping your statin, you should discuss this with your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks

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