Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 21, 2026

Differential Effects of Lipid-lowering Drugs in Modulating Morphology of Cholesterol Particles
Published on: November 10, 2017
First-degree relatives with behavioural adverse effects on statins
David Reilly1, Stephanie Cham, Beatrice Alexandra Golomb
1Department of Medicine, UCSD, San Diego, California, United States.
Two male relatives taking statins experienced irritability and aggression, suggesting a possible familial link to these adverse behavioral effects. Neither patient recognized their own behavioral changes, highlighting reporting challenges.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
Background:
- Adverse behavioral effects, including irritability and aggression, are linked to statin use.
- Low cholesterol levels have also been associated with increased aggression and violence.
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