Statins (medicine against cholesterol) would have adverse effects in the elderly according to the results of a study published in the medical journal JAMA Internal Medicine. Indeed, muscle pain, fatigue, weakness and decreased physical activity seem to affect seniors treated with this drug.
Researchers at Oregon State University conducted a large, 7-year study of 3,000 65-year-old men to understand the side effects of statins on the form and the practice of sporting activity. After completing precise questionnaires on their health, their treatment and the sports practiced, the volunteers wore an accelerometer which objectively measured the duration of the sports activity.
Statins weaken the sick
The results of this survey reveal that the men treated with statins practice approximately 40 minutes less of moderate physical activity per week than the control group.
And, it is the new users who show the greatest drop in physical activity.
“This study does not identify and explain the association between statins and decreased physical activity, but muscle soreness, a common side effect of the drug, as well as disruption of mitochondrial function in cells, which promotes fatigue and muscle weakness, could explain this decrease in activity. Professor David Lee, professor at Oregon State University and lead author of the study.
“It’s the equivalent of a loss of 150 minutes of walking at a slow pace per week” explains Professor David Lee. “These results are concerning because even moderate amounts of exercise can make a difference.”
“Especially since this decline in physical activity tends to reduce the benefit of the drug,” concludes the author. “Patients who are already frail and sedentary will need to consult to determine if the use of statins is always appropriate.
