Scientists finally uncover why statins can cause muscle pain
Scientists have uncovered a surprising reason why statins, the widely prescribed cholesterol-lowering drugs that help prevent heart attacks and strokes, can sometimes cause muscle pain, weakness, and even severe muscle damage. Using advanced imaging technology, researchers discovered that statins can attach to a crucial protein in muscle cells and force open a channel that normally controls…
Statins, widely used medications for preventing heart disease, can cause muscle pain and more severe complications in some patients. Researchers from the University of British Columbia and the University of Wisconsin-Madison have uncovered the molecular mechanism behind this side effect. Using advanced imaging techniques, they examined the ryanodine receptor, a protein controlling calcium movement in muscle cells.
Statins interfere with this process by continuously releasing calcium into the muscle tissue. Dr. Steven Molinarolo, the lead author, explained that this calcium leakage can lead to muscle damage. Their findings, published in Nature Communications, could aid in creating safer statins that maintain cholesterol-lowering benefits while minimizing muscle damage.
This discovery could lead to fewer muscle-related problems for the millions of people who rely on statins for heart protection.
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