Can statins affect testosterone levels?
Cholesterol is the substrate for testosterone biosynthesis, and theoretically, hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA reductase inhibitors such as statins could affect serum testosterone levels. Animal studies have shown that statins can reduce testosterone production when given in high doses (3).
Do statins cause low testosterone?
People take statins to lower their blood cholesterol levels and reduce their risk of heart disease. However, statins may also lower levels of testosterone and other androgens. These are hormones that have important functions in male and female health and development.
How long does it take for side effects of statins to wear off?
About 5 to 10% of people who try statins are affected. It’s more common in the elderly, in women and in those taking the more potent statins. Fortunately, these effects disappear within a month after stopping statin therapy.
Can statins affect hormones?
Conclusion. The results suggest that ET and statins can be used simultaneously with no deleterious effects on circulating hormone levels.
How much do statins lower testosterone?
In men, testosterone was lowered by doses of statins they describe as typical (but we would characterize as low to moderate) by about 4% (0.66 mmol/l; 95% CI -0.14 to 1.18) and by about 11% (0.4 mmol/L; 95% CI -0.05 to 0.76) in women.
What problems can statins cause?
Side effects can vary between different statins, but common side effects include:
- headache.
- dizziness.
- feeling sick.
- feeling unusually tired or physically weak.
- digestive system problems, such as constipation, diarrhoea, indigestion or farting.
- muscle pain.
- sleep problems.
- low blood platelet count.
Can statins affect estrogen levels?
There was no significant association between statin use and estrogen or bioavailable testosterone in women or men, and there was no statistical evidence that any of the statins were related to any of the sex hormones.
Can Atorvastatin cause weight gain?
Physical. A potential side effect of statins is muscle pain and weakness. If people are experiencing this side effect, they may be less likely to exercise, which could result in weight gain.
