Statins
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 162
Likes: 8
From: Scotland
Yes,
1178/2011 MED.A.020:
Edit: My understanding is use of statins is generally not a problem for your medical, although might depend on why you have been started on them.
1178/2011 MED.A.020:
(b) In addition, holders of a medical certificate shall, without undue delay and before exercising the privileges of their licence, seek aero-medical advice from the AeMC, AME or GMP, as applicable, when they:
(2) have commenced the regular use of any medication;
(2) have commenced the regular use of any medication;
Last edited by Edgington; 14th April 2025 at 18:18.
Moderator
Joined: Jun 1999
Aviation Qualifications: ATPL
Posts: 2,903
Likes: 32
From: MAN. UK.
I would imagine a small period of time would be needed to check for reactions (which are not uncommon) but the situation is more likely to generate an investigation as to why you need the statins in the first place. Chances are you will be asked to complete a Cardiac revue with both static and exercise ECG's.
See here:
CAA Cardiovascular Requirements
Regardless of the above. Do your own research as to whether you wish to commence taking statins. There is a lot of controversy surrounding their effectiveness and the side effects they generate. I personally chose to keep well clear of them, especially when my vet told me to avoid them like the plague.
See here:
CAA Cardiovascular Requirements
Regardless of the above. Do your own research as to whether you wish to commence taking statins. There is a lot of controversy surrounding their effectiveness and the side effects they generate. I personally chose to keep well clear of them, especially when my vet told me to avoid them like the plague.
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 911
Likes: 334
From: uk
As a medical holder, also on statins I can categorically say that the above is incorrect. Most medical professionals including an Oxford educated surgeon of my acquaintance believe that statins are of benefit. There are side effects in some cases then take medical advice. Finally, do not take medical advice from anonymous posters on prune (including me) but talk to your GP and subsequently tell your AME at your medical. There will not necessarily be the need for a cardiac assessment but that would be dependent on other factors. As for your vet’s opinion I assume that you are joking.
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 845
Likes: 105
From: Kiwiland
I practice what I preach so I am on statins. The evidence is overwealming and indeed we are now advancing from statins to the Polypill - see polypill.com
As someone who started statins prophylactically - ie to prevent problems - I was deemed unfit for 14 days as with ANY new medicine. A cardiovascular assessment is triggered by your disease not your medication so is not a risk.
As someone who started statins prophylactically - ie to prevent problems - I was deemed unfit for 14 days as with ANY new medicine. A cardiovascular assessment is triggered by your disease not your medication so is not a risk.
Joined: Feb 2004
Aviation Qualifications: ATPL
Posts: 3,689
Likes: 118
From: USA
Avoid imitations
Joined: Nov 2000
Aviation Qualifications: ATPL
Posts: 15,114
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From: Wandering the FIR and cyberspace often at highly unsociable times
I’ve suffered side effects from different statins - mainly muscular weakness and joint aches, a general feeling of being below par and increasingly dry skin. I have tried two different types, obviously under medical supervision. Just under a year ago I decided to stop taking them altogether and my symptoms largely disappeared. However, a recent blood test showed a significant increase in cholesterol levels. So I’m back on them again, trying a third type. However, the same old symptoms have soon reappeared so I’m about to have them reviewed yet again.
Having researched the subject, there is an increasing amount of controversy regarding their use, or even the importance of reducing cholesterol.
Having researched the subject, there is an increasing amount of controversy regarding their use, or even the importance of reducing cholesterol.
Joined: Feb 2004
Aviation Qualifications: ATPL
Posts: 3,689
Likes: 118
From: USA
I can't even pretend to understand why there are so many statin drugs...or what they do vs one another. But my wife and I been on atorvastatin for years with no side effects...none.
I got on it after I had to bow and scrape to the Gods of the Imperial Federal Kakistocracy so I can't speak to satisfying them where this is concerned.
I got on it after I had to bow and scrape to the Gods of the Imperial Federal Kakistocracy so I can't speak to satisfying them where this is concerned.
