Evaluation of the role of statins in the development of myalgias

Sabbagh Ghada; Imen Halloul; Rihab Khochtali; Taieb Ach; Wiem Saafi; Hamza Elfekih; Ghada Saad; Yosra Hasni

doi:10.1530/endoabs.110.EP936

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Endocrine Abstracts (2025) 110 EP936 | DOI: 10.1530/endoabs.110.EP936

ECEESPE2025 ePoster Presentations Metabolism, Nutrition and Obesity (164 abstracts)

Evaluation of the role of statins in the development of myalgias

Sabbagh Ghada ¹ , Imen Halloul ¹ , Rihab Khochtali ¹ , Taieb Ach ¹ , Wiem Saafi ¹ , Hamza Elfekih ¹ , Ghada Saad ¹ & Yosra Hasni ¹

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¹Endocrinology and Diabetology Department, Farhat Hached University Hospital, Sousse, Tunisia, Endocrinology and Diabetology Department, Sousse, Tunisia

JOINT427

Introduction: Statins, widely used for cardiovascular prevention, are sometimes associated with muscle-related side effects, such as myalgias, which can lead to discontinuation of treatment. These side effects pose a challenge in therapeutic management. The objective of this study was to assess the role of statins in the onset of myalgias.

Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in November 2024 in the endocrinology department at Farhat Hached Hospital. Patients on statin therapy were included and evaluated using a questionnaire to define a Clinical Myalgia Index (CMI). A score between 9 and 11 indicated probable involvement, 7 to 8 suggested possible involvement, and a score below 7 indicated unlikely involvement.

Results: A total of 31 patients (mean age 60±10 years, 71% female) were included. The prescribed statins were atorvastatin (83.9%), rosuvastatin (9.7%), and simvastatin (6.5%) at average doses of 40 mg, 20 mg, and 20 mg, respectively. A treatment duration of over 12 months was reported for 67% of the patients. Probable involvement was observed in 6.5%, possible involvement in 19.4%, and unlikely involvement in 74.2%. No significant association was found between the type or dose of statin, the indication for prescription, and the CMI. However, a treatment duration of less than 12 months increased the risk of myalgias by a factor of 6 (P= 0.034).

Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of regular monitoring of myalgias in patients on statin therapy. They suggest that the risk of myalgia is higher during the first months of treatment, while the type or dose of statin does not significantly affect the likelihood of developing myalgias.