Assessment of Statin-induced Adverse Effects in Hospitalized Patients: A Clinical Evaluation

Background: Statins are essential in reducing cardiovascular risks, yet they are associated with various adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Understanding the prevalence and severity of these ADRs is crucial in improving patient safety and compliance. This study focuses on evaluating statin-induced ADRs in hospitalized patients to provide clinical insights into their management. Materials and Methods: A prospective longitudinal study was conducted on 307 patients receiving statins for primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases. A regular telephonic follow-up of patients was conducted on phone calls every night, and the patients were encouraged to self-report ADRs. Results: Our analysis showed that atorvastatin was the most commonly prescribed statin, with a 40.25% overall incidence of statin-induced ADRs. Myalgia was the most frequent ADR, especially in males. Rosuvastatin 20 mg and 80 mg had significantly higher ADR incidences compared to atorvastatin at the same dosage ( P = 0.011 and P = 0.037, respectively). Causality assessment deemed 88.88% of ADRs as probable. Univariate analysis indicated atorvastatin had a higher ADR risk (odds ratio [OR]: 2.054, P = 0.031, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.067–3.954) compared to rosuvastatin, and atorvastatin 40 mg had more ADRs than other doses (OR: 2.098, P = 0.015, 95% CI: 1.154–3.814). Most atorvastatin-induced ADRs were mild (86.23%). Conclusion: The investigation revealed a substantial incidence of statin-induced ADRs. Myalgia being the most frequently observed ADRs. However, it is more prevalent in males as compared with females. Atorvastatin was associated with a higher incidence of ADRs. Despite this, the majority of atorvastatin-induced ADRs are mild.