Statins are among the most common medications used to treat patients with FH. Statins are generally safe and well tolerated and most patients experience very few side effects. Sometimes the medication may cause muscle aches or weakness, but those go away once the medication is stopped. Occasionally, an FH patient will tolerate one statin better than another.
Side effects for other medications may include:
- Ezetimibe – headaches, stomach pain and rarely, muscle pain;
- Niacin – hot flashes and flushing (skin suddenly becomes warm);
- Bile acid sequestrants – constipation, bloating, and stomach pain; and
- Fibrates – stomach pain and some diarrhea.
The side effects you experience, if any, will vary based on your medication regimen and if you are using just one or a combination of these drugs.
Side effects for apheresis may include chilling, fatigue, lightheadedness and low blood pressure. Please inform your lipid specialist if you experience any of these symptoms, though usually the level of discomfort is reduced as soon as the procedure begins.
It is important to talk with your lipid specialist about any side effects you are experiencing to ensure that you have the most appropriate treatment plan for your individual patient needs.
