Most side-effects listed for statins are not caused by the drugs, a major review finds.
Researchers published the analysis in The Lancet after examining 19 clinical trials.
The study included 124,000 participants followed for an average of four and a half years.
Evidence supported only muscle pain, diabetes risk, and four minor side-effects.
These included liver test changes, mild liver abnormalities, urine changes, and tissue swelling.
Researchers found no strong evidence for 62 other listed side-effects.
These unsupported effects included memory loss, depression, sleep problems, and nerve tingling.
The study found benefits far outweighed risks for most patients.
Lead author Christina Reith said statins did not increase common health complaints.
She said the findings should reassure most people prescribed statins.
Experts called for updated drug labels to reflect the evidence.
They said clearer information would help patients and doctors make better decisions.
