Statin-induced myopathy in the elderly: Part 1

The incidence of cardiovascular disease is higher in the elderly, who therefore derive greater absolute benefit from appropriate prophylaxis with 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins). However, there is also a high prevalence of polypharmacy in the elderly that predisposes them to statin-induced myopathy and adverse drug interactions. Here I seek to identify the predisposing factors and clinical presentation of statin-induced myopathy in the elderly. Part 2 will cover the diagnosis and management of statin-induced myopathy so that statins can be prescribed appropriately and safely in the elderly.