Statin-associated changes in liver biochemistry

Mild elevation of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) occurs in 0.5 to 2% of patients taking a statin and is more likely to occur in patients taking high-dose statin therapyCatapano, 2016. Despite this, statin therapy has not been associated with clinically relevant liver dysfunction, and acute liver failure occurs at a similar rate to the general populationCatapano, 2016Collins, 2016. Routine monitoring of ALT is not necessary.