The Effect of Statins on the Kidneys
Statins are a class of medications designed to lower harmful blood cholesterol by blocking cholesterol production. Depending on several factors, statins can have a positive or negative effect on kidney health.
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Statins
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The Mayo Clinic lists examples of statin medications that include simvastatin (Zocor), atorvastatin (Lipitor), pravastatin (Pravachol), rosuvastatin (Crestor) and lovastatin (Mevacor).
Kidney Protection
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Use of statins may help slow the progress of chronic kidney disease by reducing kidney inflammation or improving the function of kidney tissues, according to the Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine.
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Additional Benefits
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Statins may also protect the heart health of chronic kidney disease patients, who frequently have elevated cholesterol levels, the Cleveland Clinic notes.
Muscle Tissue Breakdown
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In some people, high doses of statins may lead to the breakdown of muscle tissue (rhabdomyolysis), which in turn causes the release of a protein called myoglobin into the bloodstream, the Mayo Clinic reports. Byproducts of myoglobin breakdown can enter the kidneys and cause tissue death or kidney failure, according to Medline Plus.
Increased Risks
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Use of certain drugs in combination with statins may increase the chances of triggering rhabdomyolysis. Examples include niacin, gemfibrozil, erythromycin, cyclosporine and antifungal medications, according to the Mayo Clinic.
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References
- The Mayo Clinic: High Blood Cholesterol - Statins: Are These Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs Right For Yor?
- Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine - Cleveland Clinic Center for Continuing Education: Should All Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease Take a Statin?
- Medline Plus - U.S. National Library of Medicine - National Institute of Health: Rhabdomyolysis
