The study finds that people using them have a higher risk of liver dysfunction, kidney failure, muscle weakness and cataracts—also, that such side effects of the drugs should be closely tracked.
Scientists discovered the side effects of statins were generally worst in the first year of treatment.
The findings in the British Medical Journal are unlikely to affect the use of best selling medications, but the study's authors say patient's taking statins should be proactively monitored for side effects.
