Common And Serious Side Effects Of Statins

Nausea Or Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are estimated to affect one patient out of every one hundred individuals who use statins. Patients who experience nausea or vomiting while taking statins should see a physician immediately. Some patients have reported constant nausea after starting a statin, and this may be followed by sporadic vomiting. To reduce the impact of nausea, it might be helpful to get outside in fresh air and to eat bland, soft foods as part of small meals. Avoiding strong odors and flavors could help as well. Patients should always see a doctor if their nausea occurs in conjunction with stomach pain. To help with vomiting, patients are advised to take small sips of fluids frequently to prevent dehydration. Flat soda, sports drinks, water, and fruit juice may be beneficial, and patients might want to consume foods or drinks that contain ginger. Patients should make a note of how often they experience vomiting while on statins, and they should share this information with their physician. Urgent medical care should be obtained if vomiting continues for more than one or two days or if the patient cannot keep down any fluids.

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Constipation Or Diarrhea

Digestive issues are fairly common with statin use, and as a result, patients could experience constipation or diarrhea. To treat constipation, patients are advised to increase their dietary fiber intake by adding more legumes, fruits, and cereals to their diet. Exercise can help as well, and patients need to ensure they are sufficiently hydrated. If necessary, taking a fiber supplement, stool softener, or over-the-counter laxative may help. Patients should see a doctor if they have not had a bowel movement in more than three days. To help alleviate diarrhea, doctors suggest avoiding dairy products and food high in fat and fiber. Taking an over-the-counter medication such as loperamide could help, and patients should see a physician if diarrhea continues for more than a few days or if it is accompanied by dehydration, black or bloody stools, fever, or severe abdominal pain.