STATINS & DIABETES

Helping to protect your heart and circulation

If you have diabetes, you may have a higher chance of developing heart and circulation problems over time, including a heart attack or stroke. We want you to have clear information about statins so you can make an informed decision with your healthcare team. This leaflet is general information; the best option for you depends on your individual circumstances.

What is a statin?

A statin is a medicine that lowers cholesterol, particularly LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. It reduces the build-up of fatty material in blood vessels and helps lower the chance of a heart attack or stroke. Common statins include atorvastatin and simvastatin. They are usually taken once a day.

Why are statins discussed with people who have diabetes?

Diabetes can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, even if your cholesterol result is not especially high. The risk also depends on factors such as your age, blood pressure, smoking, kidney health, cholesterol and whether you have had a heart attack or stroke before.

·    For many adults with type 2 diabetes, NICE recommends assessing cardiovascular risk and discussing a statin when appropriate.

·    For adults with type 1 diabetes, NICE recommends offering a statin for primary prevention in certain circumstances, including being over 40, having diabetes for more than 10 years, having kidney complications or having other cardiovascular risk factors.

·    If you have already had cardiovascular disease, a statin is usually recommended to reduce the risk of further problems.

A clinician will consider your personal health, other medicines, preferences and potential benefits and risks before agreeing a plan.

What are the benefits?

Statins lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. The benefit is usually greater when your starting cardiovascular risk is higher. They work best when taken regularly over the long term, alongside other ways to protect your health.

Statins are not a replacement for looking after your diabetes, blood pressure or lifestyle. Stopping smoking, being active, eating a balanced diet and attending your diabetes reviews all help reduce risk too.

Are there side effects?

Most people tolerate statins well and do not have troublesome side effects. Like all medicines, they can cause side effects in some people. These may include:

·    Headache, nausea or digestive changes.

·    Muscle aches, tenderness or weakness.

Serious muscle damage is very rare. If you develop unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, contact the surgery or speak to your pharmacist for advice. If you have severe muscle pain or weakness, particularly with dark-coloured urine or feeling very unwell, seek urgent medical advice.

Will a statin affect my diabetes?

Statins can cause a small rise in blood glucose or HbA1c in some people. NICE advises that a rise in blood glucose or HbA1c is not, by itself, a reason to stop a statin. Your diabetes monitoring remains important, and you can discuss any concerns with your clinician.

Taking a statin safely

·    Take it as prescribed and follow the instructions on the packet. If you are unsure when to take it, ask your pharmacist.

·    Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines, vitamins, herbal remedies and supplements you take. Some medicines can interact with statins.

·    Grapefruit or grapefruit juice can interact with some statins. Check the leaflet for your specific medicine or ask a pharmacist.

·    You will usually have blood tests before starting, and a cholesterol test and liver blood test around 2–3 months after starting or changing treatment. Further monitoring may be needed.

·    If you think you are having side effects, do not simply give up on treatment. Contact us: the dose may be adjusted or a different statin may suit you better.

·    Statins are not recommended during pregnancy. If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or could become pregnant, contact your clinician promptly for advice.

What if I do not want to take a statin?

It is your decision. You can ask questions, discuss your individual risk and weigh up the likely benefits and possible harms with a clinician. If you have previously declined a statin or stopped taking one, you are welcome to discuss this with us again. There may be other options if a statin is unsuitable or not tolerated.

What should I do now?

If you have been prescribed a statin, take it as directed unless a healthcare professional advises otherwise. If you have been offered one but have not started it, or would like to discuss the decision, please contact Prince of Wales Surgery.

Trusted sources and further information

NHS: Statins

NICE guideline NG238: Cardiovascular disease and lipid modification

NICE patient decision aid: Should I take a statin to reduce my risk of heart disease?

This leaflet is for general information and does not replace personalised medical advice. Information checked against NICE NG238 and NHS guidance in October 2026.