Lead author Prof Christina Reith said worries about statin safety had deterred many people who could benefit from taking them.
“Ongoing confusion and concern about side effects mean many people are not willing to start them or stop them. This is a major issue.”
That’s not to say people do not experience things while on them,” she added, “but we now have really good evidence that statins are not the cause of common problems.
“Our study provides reassurance that, for most people, the risk of side effects is greatly outweighed by the benefits.”
Her colleague Prof Sir Rory Collins, who is the review’s senior author, said: “Now that we know that statins do not cause the majority of side effects listed in package leaflets, statin information requires rapid revision to help patients and doctors make better-informed health decisions.”
Prof Bryan Williams, from the British Heart Foundation, suggested many people were missing out on statins due to stories around unproven possible side effects.
“Prescribers have been intoxicated by this negative publicity.
“We are absolutely delighted to see the outcomes of this study. These findings should provide very powerful reassurance,” Prof Williams said.
Experts stress statins save lives, but if you have any problem with your medication you should chat with your doctor.
