Guide To The Causes Of High Liver Enzymes

Statins

Statins are prescription medicines that reduce cholesterol. This type of medication is also routinely prescribed to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes in high-risk patients. Research shows that statins can reduce the risk of a second heart attack or stroke by approximately forty percent in patients who have already had one. Atorvastatin, simvastatin, pravastatin, and rosuvastatin are some of the most frequently prescribed statins. During treatment with statins, patients could notice headaches, sleeping difficulties, bloating, abdominal pain, dizziness, and muscle weakness.

Some patients have experienced an increase in liver enzymes while taking statins. This is considered a rare side effect. Taking a low to moderate dose reduces the likelihood of experiencing this effect. Patients will have their liver function carefully monitored during treatment with statins. Individuals with mildly elevated liver enzymes can continue to take the statin they have been prescribed. Patients with moderate to severe elevations may need to change to a different medicine.