Cholesterol Drugs Linked to Increased Fatigue

People prescribed widely used cholesterol-busting drugs called statins may be more likely to feel fatigued than those who don’t, a new study finds.

But the findings don’t prove that the medications make people tired, and heart specialists remain skeptical about the study, which focused on two statins, Pravachol and Zocor.

The researchers found that people on simvastatin reported reduced energy and activity levels, while those on pravastatin reported reduced energy levels only. On average, Beatrice Golomb, the study leader, said that those who took the statins reported levels of energy that were 5 percent lower than those who took a placebo

While the study only looked at two cholesterol-lowering drugs, it appears that other drugs included in this class might have similar effects, Golomb said. Other popular statins include drugs such as Crestor, Lipitor and Mevacor.

What’s the potential link? According to Golomb, it’s possible that the drugs may cause problems by disrupting the way the body produces energy in cell. She added that vitamin D supplements may help such patients feel better.

The research was expected to be presented this week at a meeting of the American Heart Association in Palm Harbor, Fla.