Marilyn McGoldrick on Jun 3, 2013 3:53:00 PM
Since their use became common in the 1990s, “statins” have been prescribed for millions of patients, earning drug companies hundreds of billions in revenue. Now, however, after almost three decades of heavy usage, new studies suggest that these hyper-prescribed drugs may be linked to increased risk of developing Type-2 diabetes. These findings may affect the nearly ¼ of Americans aged 45 or older who take the drugs. Although a number of statin drugs exist, a recent Canadian study showed that the highest increases in diabetes risk were associated with three of the stronger statins: Lipitor (22 percent increased risk); Crestor (18 percent increased risk); and Zocor (10 percent increased risk). That study also found that the relative risk of developing diabetes also appeared to decrease with one statin, known as prevastatin. A recent anonymous survey of doctors and cardiologists also found that 70 percent of those surveyed would prescribe a statin for a patient’s cholesterol level when that patient otherwise had a very low risk of heart disease.
There have been no recommendations that any patients discontinue their statin use, however, no change in prescription drug use should occur without consulting your physician. Medical guidelines suggest that a patient should first attempt to modify their lifestyle – healthier diet, increased exercise – prior to starting a regimen of the statin drugs. If you have any questions about your medications, you should first check with your doctor. If you have any questions about your legal rights, please contact Marilyn McGoldrick at Thornton Law Firm at 1-888-341-1405 or tell us your story here.
