Can Statins Cause High Blood Pressure?
December 29, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Statins are a class of medications primarily used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes. Generally, statins are not known to cause high blood pressure (hypertension). In fact, they are often prescribed to help manage cardiovascular risk factors, including hypertension, by improving cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of plaque buildup in arteries.
However, there might be rare cases where individuals may experience a slight increase in blood pressure while taking statins. This increase is typically modest and not a common side effect associated with these medications.
Some studies have suggested a potential link between statin use and small increases in blood pressure in certain individuals, but the evidence for this association is limited and not well-established. If blood pressure changes occur while taking statins, it’s crucial to discuss this with a healthcare professional.
In most cases, the benefits of statins in reducing cardiovascular risk and preventing heart disease far outweigh the potential for minor blood pressure changes. Anyone taking statins should continue to monitor their blood pressure regularly as part of their overall health management and consult their healthcare provider if they notice any concerning changes or side effects.