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Can a statin have anxiety as a side effect?

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Anxiety & Panic Disorders
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Posted 7/6/2016 4:46 PM (GMT 0)
My doctor started me on a very low dose of Lipitor and since I noticed my anxiety is more intense, if that is possible. cry
Posted 7/6/2016 4:59 PM (GMT 0)
DS,

I have not heard of read of this s/e from a statin...

However, since this Rx has somewhat of an effect on the metabolic process, (body is now drawing cholesterol from the foods ingested, not producing it on its own) there may be enough of a change in the system, as to exacerbate your anxiety...?

I also read that women, and those of smaller stature/body size (which is the impression I get if I remember correctly?) are most affected by s/e's from a statin...

...so I would just give yourself some time to adjust, and up your coping skills for now to help.

I hope you are feeling better soon!

S.C.
Posted 7/6/2016 7:11 PM (GMT 0)
Maybe it's all in my head, cause I don't like taking any meds.
Posted 7/6/2016 9:27 PM (GMT 0)
I'm sorry your anxiety has increased. Would it help knowing Statins are not know to have anxiety as a side effect. It would not be unreasonable to assume your anxiety is based on using a new medication. Best wishes.
Posted 7/6/2016 11:17 PM (GMT 0)
Just want to chime in that Scaredy Cat is right in the case of older women of small stature being more likely to experience side effects from statins. I'm 65 and 94 pounds. Within a few weeks on a statin started having very bad upper abdominal bloating and gas. Also increased anxiety but mainly due to the physical symptoms. My LFTs went into the hundreds, and my GGT was 2000. It used to be the case everyone prescribed a statin needed to check liver enzymes within 90 days, but somewhere stats showed it wasn't necessary. You should have your liver functions tested. Don't worry too much though. I went off Lovastatin and my LFTs are normal now. Good luck.
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