Muscle pain in people on statins may have a genetic link

Popular cholesterol drugs could cause aches in people with one form of gene

ACHING FOR ANSWERS  Many people stop taking cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins because of muscle pain and other side effects, but it hasn’t been clear that the drugs cause the aches. A new study throws genes into the mix, both enlightening and confusing the issue.

Liderina/iStockphoto

A new genetics study adds fuel to the debate about muscle aches that have been reported by many people taking popular cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins.