Statins are a widely used group of medicines designed to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. They work by reducing the production of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol—often referred to as “bad cholesterol”—in the liver.
Lowering LDL cholesterol is important because high levels can lead to the narrowing and hardening of arteries, a process known as atherosclerosis, which increases the risk of serious cardiovascular conditions.
Cholesterol and blood glucose screening is lacking, with over 10% of adults aged 45 to 54 in the EU not having had a test in the past five years. Screening alone is not sufficient – timely follow-up care, including diagnosis, treatment, and patient support, is essential to translate early detection into improved outcomes.
This was highlighted by the OECD in a report published in December 2025, underlining the importance of both early detection and effective management of cardiovascular risk factors.
Beased on Eurostat, in 2023, there were 4.84 million deaths among EU residents, mostly caused by circulatory diseases.
Why statins may be prescribed
Statins are typically offered to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, a general term for conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels.
They may be recommended if:
- You have already been diagnosed with a form of cardiovascular disease
- Your personal or family medical history suggests a high risk of developing it within the next 10 years, and lifestyle changes alone have not reduced that risk
Common types of cardiovascular disease include:
- Coronary heart disease (restricted blood flow to the heart)
- Angina (chest pain due to reduced blood flow)
- Heart attack (sudden blockage of blood supply to the heart)
- Stroke (interruption of blood supply to the brain)
How statins are taken
Statins are usually taken as tablets once a day. The exact dose depends on several factors, including your cholesterol levels, overall health, and any other medicines you may be taking.
Some key points:
- Your doctor may increase the dose gradually to better control cholesterol
- Certain statins can be taken at any time of day, while others are more effective in the evening
- It is important to take them at the same time each day
In most cases, statins need to be taken long-term. If treatment is stopped, cholesterol levels are likely to rise again.
If a dose is missed, it should not be doubled the next day. If too many tablets are taken, medical advice should be sought.
Possible side effects
Many people experience no side effects from statins, or only mild ones. When they do occur, they may include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
Doctors weigh the benefits of reducing the risk of serious cardiovascular events against the possibility of side effects.
A rare but more serious side effect is muscle damage (myopathy), which in severe cases can lead to kidney problems.
Who needs extra caution
Statins are not suitable for everyone.
They should not be used if:
- You have liver disease or abnormal liver function tests
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
Before starting treatment, blood tests are carried out to check liver and kidney function. Follow-up tests are typically done after 3 months and again after 12 months.
Certain groups may be at higher risk of side effects, including people who:
- Are over 70
- Have a history of liver disease
- Regularly drink large amounts of alcohol
- Have a history of muscle-related side effects
- Have a family history of muscle disorders
People with hypothyroidism may also require careful assessment, as untreated thyroid conditions can affect cholesterol levels and increase the risk of muscle-related side effects.
Interactions with medicines and food
Statins can interact with a range of medicines, increasing the risk of side effects. These include:
- Certain antibiotics and antifungal medicines
- Some HIV treatments
- warfarin
- ciclosporin
- Calcium channel blockers such as verapamil and diltiazem
- amiodarone
- fibrates
Doctors may adjust the statin dose, switch to a different statin, or temporarily stop treatment if needed.
Grapefruit juice can also interact with some statins and may need to be limited or avoided.
Alcohol and statins
People taking statins can usually drink alcohol, but intake should not exceed 14 units per week. Higher consumption increases the risk of side effects, particularly those affecting the liver.
Ongoing monitoring and advice
Because statins are typically taken long-term, regular monitoring is part of treatment. Patients are advised to:
- Read the information leaflet provided with their medicine
- Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if unsure about interactions or side effects
In short
Statins play a central role in reducing cholesterol and preventing cardiovascular disease. For many people, they are a long-term treatment that significantly lowers the risk of heart attacks and strokes. As with any medicine, their use requires balancing benefits and risks, with appropriate monitoring and medical guidance throughout.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice; always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding diagnosis, treatment, or medication use.
27.03.2026.
