Most statin side-effects not caused by the drugs, study finds

While labels list dozens of possible risks only four are supported by evidence, say researchers

Almost all side-effects listed for statins are not caused by the drugs, according to the world's most comprehensive review of evidence.

Other than the well-known risks around muscle pain and diabetes, only four of 66 other statin side-effects listed on labels - liver test changes, minor liver abnormalities, urine changes and tissue swelling - are supported by evidence. And the risks are very small, according to the systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Lancet.