Can statins cause tremors?

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Last updated: June 4, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Research

Statins are not commonly associated with causing tremors, and the current evidence does not support a strong link between statin use and the development of tremors. When considering the potential side effects of statins, it is essential to weigh the benefits of statin therapy against the risks. According to a recent study 1, statin therapy yields a small, clinically insignificant increase in muscle symptoms, and most reports of muscle symptoms by participants allocated statin therapy were not due to the statin. Some studies suggest that statins may have neuroprotective effects, potentially reducing the risk of certain neurological conditions, such as Parkinson's disease 2. However, the evidence regarding statin-induced tremors is limited, and more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between statin use and tremor development. If you experience tremors while taking a statin, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider, who may consider adjusting your dosage, switching to a different statin, or exploring alternative cholesterol-lowering strategies. The mechanism behind statin-induced tremors, if it exists, likely involves effects on the nervous system, possibly related to changes in cell membrane composition or mitochondrial function. Patients with pre-existing neurological conditions or those taking multiple medications may have a higher risk of developing this side effect, but the current evidence does not support a strong association between statin use and tremor development 1.

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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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