Neuromuscular Symptoms and Elevated Creatine Kinase after Statin Withdrawal

Abstract

To the Editor: The main reported adverse effects of statins are various forms of myotoxicity, ranging from myalgias to rhabdomyolysis.1,2 The occurrence of neuromuscular symptoms and elevated levels of creatine kinase that persist after the withdrawal of statin therapy is frequent, and there are no guidelines to help physicians determine whether such effects are the result of statin-related myotoxicity or an underlying neuromuscular disorder.3–5 Fifty-two consecutive patients (75% male, with a mean age of 54 years) with muscle weakness, myalgia, or both, along with elevated creatine kinase levels (mean, 1000 U per liter; normal, <200 U per liter) . . .