4. Neurological Damage
Another adverse side effect that has been linked to taking statins is neurological damage. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration requires that warnings of this side effect be clearly labeled on statin medications. Neurological damage can include confusion and memory loss; however, it appears that people who do experience neurological damage as a result of taking this cholesterol medication show signs of improvement when they stop taking it.
Furthermore, it has been touted that statin medications may be able to help improve memory loss for those who are suffering from dementia, as it is an anti-inflammatory medication; however, to date, no evidence has been found to support this claim. Therefore, if you have been prescribed a statin medication and you are experiencing impairment in your memory or you find that you are confused, it could be related to the medication. Speak to your doctor about this possible side effect before you stop taking your statin.