An assessment by the Statin Intolerance Panel: 2014 update

► Statin intolerance requires a patient-centered approach in practice.
► Statin intolerance might occur in 10% of patients, but true frequency is unknown.
► Permanent impairment or death from statin use is exceedingly rare.
► Innovative approaches to research on statin intolerance are needed.

This article from the National Lipid Association Statin Intolerance Panel provides a framework for understanding statin intolerance and makes general recommendations for health professionals. For specific guidance on adverse events related to muscle, liver, cognition, and glucose metabolism, one should refer to the other reports of the Statin Safety Task Force for those topics. Although statin adverse effects rarely lead to permanent sequelae, symptomatic intolerance frequently hinders cardiovascular risk reduction by statins. We emphasize here the advisory role of the clinician helping each patient to make personal decisions on statin tolerability. We identify a pressing need for further research on statin intolerance and make suggestions for research design.