What is a significant side effect of statin medications?

Statin medications are widely prescribed to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, one of the significant side effects associated with statin use is myopathy, which encompasses muscle pain, weakness, or damage. The risk of developing muscle-related issues increases with the dosage of the drug as well as with certain patient characteristics, such as age and the presence of other medical conditions. This side effect is particularly important to monitor as it can lead to more severe complications, including rhabdomyolysis, which is a breakdown of muscle tissue that can result in kidney damage.

In contrast, while gastrointestinal bleeding, increased heart rate, and weight gain can be associated with various other medications or conditions, they are not recognized as common or significant side effects of statins. Thus, the risk of myopathy is a standout concern that clinicians consider when prescribing and monitoring patients on statin therapy.