A new study from Penn State shows that statins like Lipitor may raise the risk of Parkinson’s disease. This goes against other studies that suggested these drugs may help. The Post-Gazette has the story.
The study, published in the journal Movement Disorders, said that fat-based statin drugs like Lipitor raised the risk of developing Parkinson’s later. This runs counter to current medical theory which says that these drugs can lower the risks. They said that the link revealed itself in most patients within the first 2.5 years of taking a statin.
Water-based statins like Crestor didn’t show an increased risk of Parkinson’s development. The study looked at medical database information from people aged 45-60 who weren’t on Medicare or Medicaid. The study’s writers believe that some people quit statins because they start developing Parkinson’s symptoms, but that has lead some doctors to think that going off statins is the cause of the symptoms.
More study is needed, but if you have a history of Parkinson’s in your family it would be wise to weigh the risk factors with your doctor.
Have you developed serious medical conditions due to your use of Lipitor or other statin drugs? You may be eligible to join a class action lawsuit. Contact John Foy & Associates today for a free consultation.