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Peripheral polyneuropathy in patients receiving long-term statin therapy
Ibrahim Halil Özdemir1, Özge Copkiran2, Hakan Tıkız3
1Department of Cardiology, Nizip State Hospital, Gaziantep, Turkey.
Summary
Long-term statin use, particularly atorvastatin and rosuvastatin, significantly increases the risk of developing peripheral neuropathy. Early detection of symptoms like numbness or tingling is crucial to prevent permanent nerve damage.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Peripheral neuropathy is a potential adverse effect of statin medications.
- Hypercholesterolemia is commonly treated with statins like atorvastatin and rosuvastatin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence of peripheral neuropathy in patients using atorvastatin or rosuvastatin.
- To examine the relationship between statin dose, duration, and peripheral neuropathy development.
Main Methods:
- A study included 50 patients on statin treatment and 50 age/gender-matched healthy controls.
- Polyneuropathy was assessed using neurological examinations and electroneuromyography (ENMG).
Main Results:
- 66% of statin users developed polyneuropathy compared to 0% in controls (p<0.01).
- No significant difference in neuropathy incidence between atorvastatin and rosuvastatin groups.
- Neuropathy severity increased with treatment duration in the atorvastatin group (p=0.030).
Conclusions:
- Long-term statin use (>1 year) is associated with an increased risk of peripheral neuropathy.
- Electrodiagnostic studies show nerve damage in patients on long-term statin therapy.
- Monitoring for neurological symptoms and early intervention can prevent permanent nerve damage.
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