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Statins and Neuropathic Pain: A Narrative Review
Joseph V Pergolizzi1, Peter Magnusson2,3, Jo Ann LeQuang4
1NEMA Research, Inc., Naples, FL, USA.
Pain and Therapy
|February 6, 2020
Summary
Statins may paradoxically cause neuropathic pain in humans, despite reducing it in animal models. Further research is needed to confirm this association and understand the underlying mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neurology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Statins are widely prescribed for cardiovascular risk reduction.
- Pleiotropic effects of statins are well-documented.
- Neuropathic pain syndromes have been anecdotally linked to statin use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on statin-induced neuropathic pain.
- To explore potential mechanisms behind the observed paradoxical effects.
- To differentiate between animal model findings and human clinical observations.
Main Methods:
- This is a narrative review of published studies.
- Literature search focused on statin-induced neuropathic pain, primarily in animal models.
- Consideration of human diabetic neuropathy pathophysiology.
Main Results:
- Animal studies suggest statins may reduce neuropathic pain.
- Human case reports and clinical observations associate statins with neuropathic pain.
- No definitive causal link between statins and neuropathic pain has been established by major health organizations.
Conclusions:
- The relationship between statins and neuropathic pain is complex and appears paradoxical.
- Further investigation is required to elucidate the mechanisms in humans.
- Statins remain crucial for cardiovascular health, but patient monitoring for potential side effects is important.
Keywords:
CholesterolDiabetic neuropathyNeuropathic painNeuropathyPainPeripheral diabetic neuropathyStatinMore Related Videos
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