Background: Statins are widely prescribed for the prevention and management of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. However, concerns regarding their potential effects on cognition and glycemic control have emerged following safety warnings issued by regulatory authorities.
Objectives: To evaluate the effects of statin therapy on cognitive function and glycemic status in statin-naïve patients.
Methods: This was a prospective, open-label study conducted in 100 patients aged 35–65 years attending the cardiology outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital. Cognitive function was assessed using the General Practitioner Assessment of Cognition (GPCOG), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST), and Six Letter Cancellation Test (SCT) at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. Glycemic parameters including random blood sugar (RBS) and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were measured at the same intervals. Adverse drug reactions were recorded and assessed using the Naranjo scale. Statistical analysis was performed using Student's t-test and repeated measures ANOVA.
Results: No statistically significant changes were observed in cognitive scores (GPCOG, MMSE, DSST, SCT) across the study period. Similarly, no significant changes were noted in RBS and HbA1c levels at 3 and 6 months compared to baseline. Adverse drug reactions were reported in 12% of patients, with dyspepsia being the most common. No serious adverse events were observed.
Conclusion: Short-term statin therapy did not result in significant cognitive impairment or deterioration in glycemic control. Statins were well tolerated, supporting their safety with respect to cognitive and glycemic outcomes over a six-month period.
Keywords: Statins, Cognitive function, Glycemic control, Adverse drug reactions, Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, HbA1c, Random blood sugar
How to cite this article: Kamboj S, Badyal DK., Effects of Statin Therapy on Cognitive Function and Glycemic Status: A Prospective Observational Study. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(2s): 664-672; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.664-672