Statin Drugs and Memory Loss
Statin Drugs and Memory Loss
Statin drugs like Lipitor do cause memory loss in some patients who take them. Statin medications include Lipitor (atorvastatin), Zocor (simvastatin), Mevacor (lovastatin), Crestor (rosuvastatin), Pravachol (pravastatin), and Vytorin (ezetimibe/ simvastatin). It is estimated that 25 million people worldwide take statin drugs to lower cholesterol in the hope of reducing risk for heart attack, stroke and dementia. The most common side effects of statin drugs are muscle pain and weakness. The second most common side effect is cognitive problems and memory loss despite the failure to include this side effect in the Physician’s Desk Reference.
The cognitive effects are complex. Some taking statin medications report an inability to concentrate (one of my clients reported having to think of what to do with their feet while climbing stairs when on statin medications) and “feel they are developing Alzheimer’s disease” while taking the drugs. A recent study indicated that older people with cholesterol under 200 perform more poorly on tests of mental functions than those with cholesterol over 240. Some have reported extreme amnesia lasting for 6-12 hours. Others report mood swings (very low cholesterol has been associated with suicide and violent behavior).
Cholesterol is essential to normal brain function. Indeed, there are cells in the brain that synthesize cholesterol. It is unclear why some who use the drugs develop cognitive problems and some do not. There are thousands who report these side effects but millions who use statins. On balance, most physicians see little concern as they feel that the benefits outweigh the risks. But even here, there is controversy as there is little evidence that statins benefit women or that these statin medications extend life for those over 70.
Most cases of memory problems from statin drugs appear to occur within 60 days of starting to take them. Fortunately, most return to normal memory function once they stop taking the statin medication. The longer you have taken the medication the slower the recovery. The best course of action is to talk with your physician about statin drugs if you are concerned, that way you can make an informed decision based on your medical risks and benefits
More on Heart Health:
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Category: Cholesterol, Statins
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