Statin Myopathy: Significant Problem With Minimal Awareness by Clinicians and no Emphasis by Clinical Investigators

Abstract

High cardiovascular risk patients need reduction of low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) to <70 mg/dL (1.8 mmol/L). Statins are optimal treatment but myopathy can be a limitation to their use. The incidence of statin-related myopathy is difficult to determine but up to 10.5% appears an appropriate estimate. Short-term trials report lower incidence than long-term trials. Statin-related myopathy may be influenced by genetics and tends to be dose-dependent. Ezetimibe can contribute to LDL-C reduction allowing a lower dose of statin to be used. Another approach is to administer rosuvastatin twice weekly. Statins have been shown to interfere with the cellular role of coenzyme Q10. Coenzyme Q10 supplementation may decrease or prevent statin myopathy, but this has not been proven. The occurrence of the most serious complication of myopathy—rhabdomyolysis—is very rare, but awareness of the problem, risks, and prevention are essential.