My legs are getting old: sinvastatin-induced polyneuropathy
Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 21, 2026

Assessing Mitochondrial Function in Sciatic Nerve by High-Resolution Respirometry
Published on: May 5, 2022
Einstein Francisco Camargos1, Larissa de Freitas Oliveira, Thaís de Deus Vieira Boaventura
1Geriatric Medical Centre, University Hospital, Brasilia University, Brazil. einstein@unb.br
Abstract:
Axonal degeneration is the most common type of neuropathy induced by medication. The literature describes isolated cases in which polyneuropathy of the lower limb was observed during treatment with statins. The authors present a case of polyneuropathy associated with the use of a statin. An 82-year-old female patient presented with a complaint of weakness and discomfort in her lower limbs after 7 years of therapy with simvastatin. The results of an electromyographic study were compatible with polyneuropathy (sensorimotor axonal neuropathy--moderate to severe). One month after the therapy with simvastatin was discontinued, the symptoms were reduced.
Related Concept Videos
Diabetic Neuropathy
Peripheral Artery Disease I: Introduction
Peripheral Artery Disease IV: Nursing Management
Peripheral Arterial Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Evaluation
Pharmacodynamics in Geriatric Patients: Effects of Age
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Metabolism

