Rhabdomyolysis and statins: symptoms to know

Statins are medicines used to lower cholesterol. Rarely, substantial muscle injury can release muscle proteins into the bloodstream; this is rhabdomyolysis. New, intense or worsening muscle pain is more concerning than the mild aches that can occur with exercise or an ordinary strain. Weakness that makes walking, lifting, or climbing difficult, muscle tenderness, swelling, fever, or urine that looks tea-coloured or cola-coloured should be taken seriously. Symptoms may affect large muscle groups such as the thighs, shoulders, back, or arms.

Stop strenuous exercise and contact a healthcare professional promptly if significant muscle symptoms begin while taking a statin. Do not restart, stop permanently, or change the dose on your own; a clinician can advise what to do with the medicine. Tell them the statin name and dose, when symptoms started, recent exercise or injury, dehydration, fever, and every other medicine or supplement you use. Assessment may include an examination, blood tests for muscle injury and kidney function, and a urine test.

Seek urgent medical care for dark or reduced urine, severe or rapidly increasing muscle pain, marked weakness, spreading swelling, confusion, faintness, trouble breathing, or inability to keep fluids down. These signs can accompany significant muscle breakdown or kidney stress. Do not wait for the next routine prescription appointment if these symptoms are present.

Could my symptoms be related to my statin or another medicine? Which tests should I have? Should I pause the statin until my results are reviewed? How can cholesterol treatment be managed safely afterward?