What is the potential side effect of statins related to muscle health?

Myalgia is a term that refers specifically to muscle pain or discomfort, which can be a side effect associated with the use of statins. Statins are medications commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. One of the well-documented side effects of statins is muscle-related symptoms, including myalgia, which may present as mild to moderate muscle aches without significant increase in muscle enzymes.

Myalgia can occur due to statins' effects on muscle metabolism, including the potential inhibition of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production, which is crucial for muscle cell energy. Some patients may experience discomfort that leads to reduced physical activity or even cessation of the medication.

Other related side effects include more serious conditions such as rhabdomyolysis, characterized by severe muscle breakdown, but myalgia itself is the most common muscle-related symptom observed with statin use. Understanding this connection is critical for healthcare providers to monitor and manage patients taking statins effectively.