Statins and Heart Health: What People With Diabetes Should Know

If you’re living with diabetes, you may already know that your risk of heart disease is higher. In fact, people with diabetes are twice as likely to have a heart attack or stroke than those without it.

The good news? Research continues to show that statin medications can significantly lower that risk — and they’re safe for most people.

How Diabetes Affects the Heart 

Over time, high blood sugar can damage the nerves and blood vessels that support the heart. One of the most common causes of heart disease is a buildup of plaque — mostly made of cholesterol — inside the arteries. As this plaque grows, it can narrow the arteries that supply the heart and brain. That makes it harder for blood to get through and raises the risk of heart attack or stroke.

What Is a Statin?

Statins are a type of medication that help protect your heart and brain. They work in several important ways: 

• Help lower LDL cholesterol (the kind that clogs arteries) by 30 to 50%
• Help prevent heart attacks and strokes by 30 to 45%
• Help reduce the risk of dementia by 20% and Alzheimer’s disease by 32%
• Keep plaque stable so it doesn’t break off and block blood flow
• Lower swelling in artery walls, helping prevent blockages
• Slow or stop plaque buildup over time

If you have diabetes, your healthcare provider may recommend a statin even if your cholesterol levels are normal. Statins have been studied for more than 30 years and have a strong safety record.

What to Expect if You Take a Statin

Your provider will work closely with you to find the statin and dosage that fits your health needs. Here’s what to expect: 

• Statins are usually taken once a day
• You’ll get regular blood tests to check your cholesterol and liver function
• Your prescription will be based on your cholesterol numbers, heart disease risk, and how well your body tolerates the medicine
• If needed, your provider may adjust the type of statin or the dose

Possible Side Effects of Statins 

Most people who take statins don’t experience side effects. If side effects do occur, they’re usually mild and manageable: 

• Common side effects can include joint or muscle aches, dizziness, headaches or an upset stomach
• Liver damage from statins is extremely rare and only affects about 1 in 17,000 to 100,000 people
• Serious muscle injury (called rhabdomyolysis) is also very rare and only affects about 1 in 10,000 people
• Some people may notice a slight increase in blood sugar levels, but this is uncommon, and the benefits of statins usually outweigh the risks

How to Take Statins Safely

To get the most from your statin: 

• Always take it as prescribed
• Tell your provider if you notice any side effects. Don’t stop the medication on your own.
• Ask whether any other medications, supplements or foods (like grapefruit) could affect your statin
• Let your doctor know if you have muscle pain — a blood test or a different statin might help

Eat Well and Stay Active

Statins and lifestyle changes work best when used together. Statins help lower cholesterol through medication, while diet and exercise support your heart in other important ways. They’re not substitutes — they’re partners in protecting your health.

If you have more questions, talk to your doctor. Connect with a Sutter Health Educator to learn more about heart disease, statins and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.