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Safe use of statins in elderly people
Author(s) -
Westaway Kerrie P.,
Frank Oliver R.,
Husband Alan J.,
Rowett Debra,
Rossi Simone,
L. Blanc Tammy,
Shute Russell
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
journal of pharmacy practice and research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.222
H-Index - 22
eISSN - 2055-2335
pISSN - 1445-937X
DOI - 10.1002/jppr.1022
Subject(s) - medicine , weakness , life expectancy , statin , adverse effect , muscle weakness , physical therapy , intensive care medicine , surgery , population , environmental health
Multiple medicine use is common in older Australians, with statins (hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors) being among the most commonly prescribed. While there is significant evidence that statins are of benefit in people at higher levels of cardiovascular risk, the risk–benefit ratio is less assured in those 80 years and older. High doses or high‐potency statins in elderly people may not increase effectiveness, but may increase the risk of adverse effects such as muscle‐related aches, pains and weakness. Hence, statin use in the elderly requires frequent review and consideration of their therapeutic goals, quality of life, risk–benefit ratio and life expectancy. This paper outlines steps to consider when an older person who is prescribed a statin experiences unexplained muscle‐related aches and pains or weakness.