Statin Drugs Linked to Hundreds of Side Effects
By H. Joshua Diamond, P.A.
Apr. 12, 2013 9:15a
Statins are a type of prescription drug which are used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. They are generally prescribed to reduce cardiovascular disease. The number of Americans who take statin drugs is estimated at around 32 million; they are typically prescribed for those aged 45 and older. The problem with statin drugs is that they are associated with up to 300 different side effects. Due to the increasing number of reports concerning these side effects, the FDA issued additional warning labels to these drugs last year. Lipitor, Crestor, and Zocor are some of the brand names of these drugs, which have become some of the best-selling pharmaceuticals ever sold in this country.
The added warnings by the FDA include an increased risk of memory loss, liver damage, type 2 diabetes, and muscle weakness. Because statins decrease Coenzyme Q10 in the body, they can increase the risk of heart problems, including heart failure. In Canada, statins come with a label warning users of CoQ10 depletion, stating that such a depletion could cause impaired cardiac function. The FDA in the U.S. does not add this information to stain drug labels. Another warning has been removed from statin drug label information by the FDA, which is one regarding the need for liver function monitoring for those using the drug. According to reports from England, Wales, and Sweden, liver damage is the most frequently occurring side effect in patients taking statin drugs in their countries.
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Many pharmaceutical drugs have been associated with serious side effects and even deaths in the past few decades. Often, the most dangerous are recalled but only after many individuals have suffered health damage through their use. In such cases, those harmed can seek legal recourse against negligent drug companies for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Such personal injury claims can be complicated and difficult, especially when going up against huge drug companies.
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