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For many families, the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease brings deep concerns and many questions. One question that has sparked debate over the years is whether statins — medications prescribed to lower cholesterol — might increase the risk of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.
As we unravel this complex topic, it’s important to understand what the research says and what health professionals recommend for keeping both the heart and brain healthy.
Statins are a class of drugs that doctors use to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, including heart attacks and strokes. Statins work by blocking an enzyme in the liver responsible for producing cholesterol. When cholesterol levels drop, plaque buildup in the arteries decreases, improving blood flow to the heart and brain.
Statins are among the most widely prescribed medications globally, especially for people over the age of 40 or those at risk of cardiovascular (heart) problems. Given their role in heart health, it’s understandable that suggestions of a potential link between statins and Alzheimer’s disease may raise concerns.
The idea that statins, or other drugs, might increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease has been a topic of debate in the medical community in recent years. Researchers are still trying to answer whether there’s a real connection between statin use and dementia.
Some small studies have raised concerns that statins may increase the risk of memory problems or dementia, particularly in people who are already at risk for cognitive decline. Cognition is how your brain helps you think, learn, and understand the world around you. It includes things like remembering stuff, solving problems, paying attention, and making decisions.
One 2023 study in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia suggested that people who took lipophilic statins (a type of statin that can cross into the brain more easily) experienced faster cognitive decline in areas linked to Alzheimer’s disease. These types of statins include:
The study also found that statins may accelerate brain changes related to Alzheimer’s, especially in people with mild cognitive impairment and normal cholesterol levels. Additionally, those on lipophilic statins showed worse cognitive function over time compared to those not taking these drugs.
A 2022 study from the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease suggested that the effects of statins on cognition may vary based on genetic factors. For individuals with the APOE4 allele (a genetic marker associated with a higher risk for Alzheimer’s), certain statins were found to either protect against or make the risk for cognitive decline worse, depending on other genetic factors.
However, it’s important to note that these were observational studies, meaning they can’t prove that statins caused these effects. Other factors, like overall health or medications, could have played a role.
On the other hand, larger studies have shown that statins don’t increase the risk of Alzheimer’s or dementia. In fact, they might reduce the risk. For example:
A 2023 study showed that some with Alzheimer’s disease or mixed dementia who were treated with statins experienced cognitive benefits. Over a period of three years, these participants had improved scores on cognitive tests like the Mini–Mental State Examination (MMSE), suggesting that the more they took statins, the more their brain function improved.
In short, while some studies show that statins may protect against dementia, clinical trials (research studies on new medical approaches) have not consistently shown these benefits. Clinical trials are generally considered the most reliable type of research.
While observational studies provide helpful insights, clinical trials have produced mixed results. For instance:
These results highlight the complexity of understanding how statins affect brain health, with both positive and neutral findings in different participant groups.
Statins lower cholesterol, which is essential for heart health. But how might statins affect brain health?
The brain needs cholesterol to function properly. It helps build cell membranes and allows brain cells to communicate with each other
However, too much cholesterol in the blood can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries, which can reduce blood flow to the brain. This may increase the risk of vascular dementia, a type of dementia caused by strokes or other blood flow problems in the brain. Statins reduce cholesterol and may protect against stroke-related cognitive decline.
Alzheimer’s disease involves the buildup of amyloid plaques — toxic protein clumps that damage brain cells. Some researchers believe that stains may help reduce inflammation in the brain and prevent the formation of amyloid plaques.
Although this theory is promising, more research is needed to confirm whether statins have a direct effect on Alzheimer’s disease.
If you or your loved one has been prescribed statins, it’s important to remember that these medications play a critical role in preventing heart disease and stroke. While the research on statins and Alzheimer’s is ongoing, most health care professionals agree that the benefits of statins for heart health outweigh any potential risks for brain health.
If you’re concerned about statins and their effect on brain health, here are a few steps you can take.
If you’re worried about memory problems or dementia, it’s always a good idea to discuss your concerns with a health care provider. They can guide you based on the latest research and your loved one’s specific health needs.
If statins are causing side effects, ask your doctor if there are alternative medications or lifestyle changes to help manage cholesterol.
Research on Alzheimer’s disease and statins is constantly evolving. Keep up with the latest research from reliable sources like the National Institute on Aging or the Alzheimer’s Association.
While the link between statins and the risk of Alzheimer’s or dementia has been debated, most research, including large studies and clinical trials, indicates that these drugs do not increase the risk. Some evidence even suggests that statins might help protect against cognitive decline.
The benefits of statins for heart health are well established, and for most people, they outweigh any potential risks to brain health. If you have concerns about Alzheimer’s or how statins may affect brain health, consult your doctor. Open communication with your health care provider is key to making the best decisions for your heart and brain health.
MyALZTeam is the social network for people with Alzheimer’s and their loved ones. On MyALZTeam, more than 86,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with Alzheimer’s.
Are you wondering if statins will affect you or your loved one’s brain health? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.
Kelsey Stalvey, Pharm.D.
received her Doctor of Pharmacy from Pacific University School of Pharmacy in Portland, Oregon, and went on to complete a one-year postgraduate residency at Sarasota Memorial Hospital in Sarasota, Florida.
Learn more about her here.
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