By Thuy McKitrick, Pharmacy Program Manager

Statin drugs are among the most commonly prescribed medications in the U.S. They have been shown to significantly reduce the risk of having a heart attack or stroke.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should take statins?

Statins are recommended for people who have been diagnosed with heart disease, who have had a heart attack or stroke, have a stent, or who are known to have plaque in their body.

Statins are also recommended for people known to be high-risk based on other conditions, like a genetic predisposition to high cholesterol or heart disease, or diabetes.

My cholesterol level is normal. Why do I need a statin?

Statins provide additional protection from heart attacks and strokes even if your cholesterol is normal or low.

My diabetes is well controlled. Do I still need a statin?

Patients who have a diagnosis of diabetes, controlled or not, are still at a 2-4 fold higher risk for heart disease and would benefit from a statin.

To lower the risk of developing heart disease, most people with diabetes should take a stain.

I heard statins can cause diabetes. Is this true?

Studies have shown a small number of new diabetes diagnoses. However, this is minimal when compared to the number of cardiac events that could have been prevented.

Can I just exercise and diet?

Statins provide the added benefit of anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that have been shown to reduce heart attacks/strokes.

I get muscle aches when I take statins.

Many people who experience muscle symptoms can keep taking their statin at a lower dose. Up to 90% of patients can tolerate a different statin. Talk to your provider if you’re experiencing any side effects.

Talk to your health care provider

If you have had a cardiac event, are at risk for a cardiac event or have diabetes, ask your provider if a statin would be beneficial for you.

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