People taking a common cholesterol-lowering medicine have been reminded to look out for a rare but serious complication
14:21, 12 Oct 2026Updated 18:04, 12 Oct 2026
The NHS website has advice for people taking atorvastatin(Image: Peter Dazeley via Getty Images)
Atorvastatin is prescribed to lower cholesterol and help reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes, and many people take it for years. While muscle aches are a recognised possible side effect, pharmacist Dr Philip Crilly says there is another warning patients should know about.
In a TikTok video, Dr Crilly explained that liver problems can occur in people taking statins, although serious complications are rare. He explained: “Most people know about the muscle problems with statins but there’s another side effect I don’t talk about nearly as often.
“Liver problems. They’re rare but they can be serious. Things to look out for include yellowing of your skin and the whites of your eyes or unusually dark urine.”
Atorvastatin is a type of statin that can help lower cholesterol levels(Image: Getty)
The NHS confirms that atorvastatin can rarely cause liver inflammation, which may lead to yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes. Other warning signs can include pale stools, and anyone who notices these symptoms while taking the medicine should seek urgent medical advice.
Dr Crilly also reflected on how pharmacists discuss potential side effects with patients, saying: “If I’m talking to somebody taking a statin, the serious side effect I’d most likely emphasise is the muscle pain and weakness.” He added that counselling should focus on making sure people understand the symptoms that matter, rather than simply giving them a long list of possible reactions.
Muscle pain, tenderness or weakness that cannot be explained by exercise can also require prompt medical attention, particularly if accompanied by feeling unwell or dark, reddish-brown urine. The NHS advises people who think they may be experiencing a serious side effect from atorvastatin to contact NHS 111.
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People taking the medicine should not stop or change their dose simply because they are worried about a possible side effect. Instead, they should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist, who can assess their symptoms and advise on the safest next step.
Atorvastatin remains an important treatment for people who need help managing cholesterol and reducing cardiovascular risk. Knowing the warning signs does not mean a serious problem is likely, but recognising them early can help people get the right care.