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Statins and risk of polyneuropathy: a case-control study
D Gaist1, U Jeppesen, M Andersen
1Department of Neurology, Odense University Hospital, Denmark. dgaist@health.sdu.dk
Neurology
|May 16, 2002
Summary
Long-term statin use may significantly increase the risk of developing idiopathic polyneuropathy. This population-based study found a substantially elevated odds ratio for polyneuropathy in statin users, especially for definite cases with prolonged exposure.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Case reports and limited studies suggest statins may harm the peripheral nervous system.
- A population-based study was conducted to investigate the association between statin use and idiopathic polyneuropathy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the relative risk of idiopathic polyneuropathy in individuals using statins.
- To quantify the association between statin exposure and the incidence of polyneuropathy.
Main Methods:
- A population-based registry identified new cases of idiopathic polyneuropathy from 1994-1998.
- Control subjects were matched for age, sex, and time.
- Prescription data was used to assess statin exposure and calculate odds ratios.
Main Results:
- 166 cases of idiopathic polyneuropathy were verified.
- Statin use was associated with a 3.7-fold increased odds of polyneuropathy (all cases).
- Definite cases showed a significantly higher odds ratio (14.2), increasing with duration and current use, reaching 26.4 for long-term definite cases.
Conclusions:
- Long-term statin exposure is linked to a substantial increase in polyneuropathy risk.
- The findings highlight a potential adverse effect of statins on peripheral nerves.