Which of the following is an adverse effect associated with statin medications?

Statin medications are widely used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. One of the well-documented adverse effects associated with statins is liver enzyme elevation. Statins can lead to increases in hepatic transaminases, which are enzymes that indicate liver function. Monitoring liver function tests is often recommended for patients on statins to detect any potential liver injury early on. While mild elevations are sometimes observed and may not require discontinuation of therapy, significantly raised levels could suggest hepatotoxicity, making it essential for healthcare providers to be vigilant.

Although other side effects such as headaches and muscle pain can occur with statins, they are generally less severe compared to the implications of liver enzyme elevations. Dry mouth and bradycardia are not commonly associated with statin use and might be related to other medications or conditions rather than effects stemming directly from statins. Recognizing liver enzyme elevation as a potential adverse effect is crucial for maintaining patient safety during long-term statin therapy.