Statin Associated Muscle Symptoms with Dr Thomas Nero and Dr Paul Thompson
Mar 9, 2022
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In this discussion, Dr. Paul Thompson, a renowned expert in lipid metabolism and sports cardiology, shares insights on Statin Associated Muscle Symptoms (SAMS). He delves into the controversial findings of the STOMP and SAMSON trials, emphasizing the complex relationship between statins and muscle issues. The conversation also explores alternative treatments for those intolerant to statins and the impacts of these medications on athletic performance, shedding light on the intricacies of managing hyperlipidemia in patients.
Statin-associated muscle symptoms (SAMS) may be misinterpreted in patients, necessitating thorough patient reassurance and tolerance testing for effective management.
For statin-intolerant patients, low-dose long-acting statins combined with alternatives like ezetimibe can facilitate significant cholesterol reduction without extensive side effects.
Deep dives
Understanding Statin-Associated Muscle Symptoms
Statin-associated muscle symptoms (SAMS) remain a significant concern among patients prescribed statins for cholesterol management. Evidence indicates that while some patients may report experiencing these symptoms, often the link to statin use can be misinterpreted. In a study involving 440 participants, 10% experienced muscle complaints while on atorvastatin, compared to 5% on placebo, illustrating the reality of SAMS. However, patient care should involve reassurance and a careful approach to test tolerance to statins to properly address their concerns.
Low-Dose Statins and Alternative Treatments
For patients struggling with statin tolerance, utilizing low doses of long-acting statins can be effective, often providing significant cholesterol reduction without considerable side effects. Combining low doses with agents like ezetimibe can yield substantial reductions in LDL cholesterol, while maintaining patient comfort. In cases where statins are not tolerated, alternatives such as bempedoic acid and PCSK9 inhibitors can be utilized, though they can be cost-prohibitive for many patients. This highlights the need for more cost-effective strategies to improve patient adherence to essential cholesterol-lowering therapies.
The Impact of Exercise on Statin Patients
Athletes on statins may encounter unique challenges, especially concerning muscle response to physical exertion. Research shows that athletes can experience elevated CK levels post-exercise, particularly with activities involving eccentric contraction, which has implications for endurance training. To mitigate potential muscle injury during races, healthcare providers often recommend temporarily discontinuing statins before major athletic events. This approach underscores the importance of personalized care in managing medication alongside an active lifestyle for patients.
Dr Nero and Dr Thomposn discuss Statin Associated Muscle Symptoms (SAMS) and the results of the STOMP and SAMSON trials. In addition, they discuss statins and athletic training, options for the statin intolerant patient and research regarding further investigation of the ranitadine receptor among other topics
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