Things to Know When Diagnosed as Statin Intolerant, with Adedapo Iluyomade, M.D.

Adedapo Iluyomade, M.D., a preventive cardiologist at Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute, part of Baptist Health South Florida, says that when diagnosed with statin intolerance, it’s important to first confirm the diagnosis, because muscle aches or mild side effects might not always be due to statins. This can be done by stopping and restarting the medication to see whether symptoms reoccur.

If statin intolerance is confirmed, there are several nonstatin alternatives currently available, including bempedoic acid, ezetimibe, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors (biweekly injections delivered by the patient via an injection pen), and a newer nonstatin medication administered every six months. These options are effective and do not cause the same side effects as statins.

Additionally, Iluyomade encourages patients to work with their health care provider to reassess whether they truly need statin therapy, using updated risk stratification tools such as computed tomography (CT) calcium scoring and other calculators. He emphasizes that lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise, remain essential for cholesterol management and overall health. Patients should pay close attention to how their body responds to physical activity and communicate any changes to their clinician.

5 Things to Know When Diagnosed as Statin Intolerant

• Confirm the diagnosis: Symptoms may not always be due to statins. Stop and restart the medication to see whether side effects return.
• Explore alternative medications: Nonstatin options such as bempedoic acid, ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors and a six-month injectable therapy are available.
• Check whether statins are still necessary: Use updated risk assessment tools (e.g., CT calcium scoring) to determine whether cholesterol-lowering medication is still needed.
• Focus on lifestyle changes: Diet, exercise and general health awareness remain critical in managing cholesterol.
• Monitor body responses: Track how your body reacts to exercise and new medications, and share this information with your health care provider.