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Real members of MGteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Can statin drugs interfere with MG treatments i.e. make them worse?

A MGteam Member asked a question 💭
Hammond, IN
January 15
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Answer Summary

Members discussed whether statin drugs can worsen myasthenia gravis symptoms, with the original poster suspecting they were part of the small... Read more

Members discussed whether statin drugs can worsen myasthenia gravis symptoms, with the original poster suspecting they were part of the small percentage who experience flares from statins, noticing increased fatigue and drooping eyes while awaiting guidance from their neurologist. Several members shared personal experiences of muscle pain, fatigue, and other side effects from statins, with some successfully switching to non-statin cholesterol medications like ezetimibe or managing cholesterol through diet alone after stopping statins. A recurring theme was frustration with doctors over-prescribing statins without fully considering MG interactions or listening to patient concerns, balanced by encouragement to stay hopeful, advocate firmly for oneself, and work closely with specialists who understand the complexities of living with a rare condition.

A MGteam Member

RobertaConneryp
Many doctors are just out of their element with MG because so few if us have it. Patience is key for us.
I hope you get the right meds on your next doctor visit
Stay hopeful 😎

January 16
A MGteam Member

Bernadette
Thats a sleep flare for sure. My pcp was going over my chart and called to tell he was taking me off and prescribed to non statins ezitimibe and amlopadine and its working. Those statins do the job but the side effects!
Stay hopeful 😎

January 16
A MGteam Member

I stopped statins in 2002 and have not had any issues with cholesterol since. It wasn’t that high so diet is helping.

January 15
A MGteam Member

There are now anti-cholesterol treatments that are not statins and as someone who has already had significant problems with statins, I would look hard at alternative treatments. Also remember that if your cholesterol is not terribly far out from the recommended levels you can do a lot of good with diet.

January 15
MGteam

Can statin drugs interfere with myasthenia gravis treatments or make MG symptoms worse?

Yes, statins can worsen myasthenia gravis symptoms for some people. Studies have shown that people with MG who take statins may experience worsening symptoms, though the good news is that symptoms generally improve once the statin is Show Full Answer

Can statin drugs interfere with myasthenia gravis treatments or make MG symptoms worse?

Yes, statins can worsen myasthenia gravis symptoms for some people. Studies have shown that people with MG who take statins may experience worsening symptoms, though the good news is that symptoms generally improve once the statin is stopped.

Researchers have also reported cases where taking a statin may actually trigger the development of myasthenia gravis in people who didn't previously have it. Scientists don't yet fully understand why statins affect MG this way.

However, it's important to know that not everyone with MG has negative reactions to statins. These medications are important for managing high cholesterol, so the decision isn't always straightforward.

If you have high cholesterol and MG, here's what to consider:

* Discuss treatment options thoroughly with your doctor
* They may recommend trying a statin while closely monitoring your symptoms
* If symptoms worsen, they can switch you to a different medication
* The benefits of cholesterol management need to be weighed against potential MG symptom changes

The key is working closely with your healthcare team to find the right balance for your specific situation.

January 15

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