Statin Therapy and Peripheral Neuropathy

Risk Factors and Characteristics

The American College of Cardiology suggests that the risk of peripheral neuropathy appears to increase with higher statin doses and longer duration of statin therapy (>1 year) 1, 2

The American College of Cardiology recommends considering dose reduction or temporary discontinuation of the statin for patients who develop symptoms of peripheral neuropathy while on statins, and evaluating whether to reinstitute therapy based on symptom resolution and risk-benefit assessment 1, 2
The American Diabetes Association notes that evaluating for other common causes of peripheral neuropathy, particularly in patients with diabetes, is crucial 3

The American College of Cardiology states that the benefits of statin therapy in reducing cardiovascular events generally outweigh the risk of peripheral neuropathy for most patients 4, 5
The American College of Cardiology suggests that patients at higher risk for statin-associated myopathy may also warrant closer monitoring for peripheral neuropathy 1, 2