What should patients be advised regarding the potential side effects of statins?

Patients should be advised that statins can result in liver damage. This is particularly important as statins work by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a key role in the cholesterol synthesis pathway in the liver. While statins are generally well-tolerated, there is a risk of hepatotoxicity, which can manifest as elevated liver enzymes in blood tests.

Regular monitoring of liver function tests is recommended in patients taking statins to detect any potential liver injury early. Patients should be educated about symptoms that could indicate liver problems, such as unexplained fatigue, loss of appetite, or yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), so they can seek medical advice promptly if they experience such symptoms.

The other potential side effects listed do not accurately reflect the primary concerns associated with statin therapy. Headaches can occur as a common side effect, but they are generally considered mild and not as serious as liver damage. Weight gain and increased appetite are not typically associated with statin use, making the information regarding liver damage crucial for patient education and safety.