The case for the widespread use of statins is extremely flimsy. The trials that provide the justification have been subject to detailed criticisms (1). In any event most of them were conducted before effective regulatory controls were introduced. As most of the work has been with men, the case for using statins with women is […]
Readers of these blogs will be aware that there is very little reliable evidence to demonstrate that using statins to lower total cholesterol (TC) and LDL-Cholesterol (LDL-C) has substantial benefits. As a general rule, the advantages of using statins have been exaggerated. At the same time, the adverse side effects (ADEs) have invariably been downplayed.
I have lost count of the number of people who have been recommended to use statins but subsequently decided to stop taking them. There are two reasons normally used to justify these regimes, namely: You are at high risk of having a heart disease, which may well be fatal. You have survived a heart attack,
Currently there is widespread use of statins which is justified on the grounds that those who receive regular treatment will have a reduced risk of developing heart disease. Ideally there should be thorough evaluations which demonstrate the extent of the benefits as well as comprehensive knowledge of the adverse side effects which may arise. However
215.The Shaky Foundations of the Case for Statins Read More »
I have just discovered a fascinating paper which describes the results of gathering and collating information from self-reported accounts of adverse reactions to statins (1). It has been published on the internet by the Journal of Independent Medical Researchers, which enables individuals to present their thoughts and ideas. All those involved give their time free
177. Statins: A Disturbing Study about Adverse Side Effects Read More »
According to a report in The Guardian: “The NHS is generally acknowledged to be facing a growing funding crisis after four years of tight settlements, deepening demographic pressure and an inefficient system that splits health and social care. The Nuffield Trust has suggested there will be a financial shortfall of £2bn in 2015-16” (1). The
Good Morning Julian, I have just posted this article on my blog at http://vernerwheelock.com/?p=569 More details of the damaging effects of statins will be found at http://www.spacedoc.com/statin_side_effects My primary concern is the fact that such a large number of perfectly healthy people are suffering serious ill-health even though NICE accepts that it will not improve
The latest edict from the National Institute for Clinical and Health Excellence (NICE) means that virtually everyone over 50 will be recommended to go on statins. NICE recognises that 77 people will have to be treated with these drugs over a 3-year period for one person to derive any benefit (1). It is crucial to
The Cochrane Collaboration has established a unique reputation for the publication of reports on a variety of topics in the medical field. This is an area where there are very powerful vested interests and the quality of much of the research is questionable. Therefore the contribution of the Collaboration has proved to be extremely valuable
109. Cochrane Collaboration Evaluates Statins for Primary Prevention of Heart Disease Read More »
Recently I have devoted several posts to the topic of statins (1,2,3). It is obvious that there are many serious doubts about the official/conventional approach to the use of these drugs which have been highlighted by the recent controversy in the BMJ. The results of the special inquiry established by Fiona Godlee, the editor-in-chief of
105. Statin critics cleared. Top statin advocate knuckles’ rapped Read More »