Statins aren’t known to directly cause weight gain. Some people taking a statin may notice changes in their weight over time. But this is often related to lifestyle factors rather than the medication itself. If you notice unexpected weight changes after starting a statin, talk to your healthcare team.

There aren’t many foods you need to completely avoid while taking statins. But grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interact with certain statins — especially simvastatin, atorvastatin, and lovastatin — and increase the risk of side effects. So you may need to limit how much you consume. It’s also a good idea to limit alcohol , since both alcohol and statins can affect the liver. On the other hand, following a heart-healthy diet that’s low in saturated fats and prioritizes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help your medication work better.

Statins are usually meant to be taken long term. Stopping treatment after a few months may cause your cholesterol levels to rise again, which can increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke. If you’re thinking about stopping statin therapy , whether due to side effects or other concerns, talk to your prescriber. They may adjust your dose, switch you to a different medication, or suggest other options.