Which adverse effect is commonly associated with statin therapy?

Which adverse effect is commonly associated with statin therapy?

• A. Hyperkalemia
• B. Myalgia
• C. Hepatotoxicity
• D. Headache

Answer: (B)

Muscle-related effects are a well-known concern with statins, and the most commonly reported adverse effect is myalgia—that sense of muscle pain or weakness that patients often notice in the legs or proximal muscles. This occurs more frequently than true liver injury or electrolyte disturbances, and while mild liver enzyme elevations can happen, significant hepatotoxicity is uncommon and usually resolves if the drug is stopped. Hyperkalemia is not typically linked to statins, and headaches, though possible, are nonspecific and not characteristic of statin therapy. Therefore, myalgia best matches the common adverse effect pattern seen with statins. If symptoms are mild, continuing with observation and routine monitoring is reasonable; for more severe or persistent symptoms, reassessment of dose or switching statins may be warranted, and CK levels can be checked if muscle symptoms are concerning.

Muscle-related effects are a well-known concern with statins, and the most commonly reported adverse effect is myalgia—that sense of muscle pain or weakness that patients often notice in the legs or proximal muscles. This occurs more frequently than true liver injury or electrolyte disturbances, and while mild liver enzyme elevations can happen, significant hepatotoxicity is uncommon and usually resolves if the drug is stopped. Hyperkalemia is not typically linked to statins, and headaches, though possible, are nonspecific and not characteristic of statin therapy. Therefore, myalgia best matches the common adverse effect pattern seen with statins. If symptoms are mild, continuing with observation and routine monitoring is reasonable; for more severe or persistent symptoms, reassessment of dose or switching statins may be warranted, and CK levels can be checked if muscle symptoms are concerning.