UK study: Problems with statin drugs caused by a 'nocebo effect'

The UK study has found that debilitating problems thought to be caused by statins are seldom caused by the actual drug.

It points to a 'nocebo effect' which is causing the problems, with users believing that the drug will make them sick. The study found a stark 90% of cases may be caused by the 'nocebo effect'.

The British Heart Foundation has said the results are undeniable.

Statins are one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the UK, with nearly 8 million prescriptions.