Statin drugs are known to reduce cholesterol, which benefits the retina. The medications may, however, also increase the risk of cataracts, according to a report published September 19, 2013 in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
An analysis of 6,972 subjects showed that those taking the medication had a 9% higher risk of cataract development. The results indicate that people on statin medication for high cholesterol might benefit from regular eye exams and by following recommendations for cataract prevention.
Source:
Association of Statin Use With Cataracts–A Propensity Score–Matched Analysis (JAMA Ophthalmol. Published online September 19, 2013. doi:10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2013.4575)
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