Doctor told me I have to go on statins

Nobody can tell you to take them or not. Sounds like you've done your research. So you probably already know the pro's and cons. I can only give my personal experience , whitch turned out not too good over the long haul. But I was on them from 2004 to 2015. Don't think my problems are reversible now. But many people have not had any problems. With me , I didn't recognize that nerve and muscle problems were related to statins. Dr.s kept saying everything was related to aging or some other med. Problem was , I wasn't taking any other meds. Now , SOME , Dr.s admit they were wrong but most want even admit to that. I think the docs just blindly believe what the pharmaceuticals tell them and disregard evidence provided by other reaserch. Anyway , it's still your decision , so good luck with whatever path you choose.

It sounds like cholesterol is a problem in your family and at 34 your GP would not lightly prescribe them. Be guided by the fact that your parents have no problem with them rather than what you have read.

Do you smoke or drink ? Think of the scare stories on tobaco and alcohol.

Can I ask what your choelesterol is? I think if you read about the prescribing of these meds you will see they are prescribing them for much lower numbers of choelesterol then they used to. I read an article that said some doctors even thought they should be added to public drinking water. Do you have an actual health problem or is it just because he feels since your parents have some health issues you should take them? Do alot of research,no one can tell you what is best for you. After what I went through,I doubt I will try taking them again. Xx Read user reviews for specific statins on the internet -will tell you what others have experienced. And no doctor can tell you what you HAVE to do. You hired them. You pay them. Its your body.

Alison, first I am sorry that you health is such that your Dr feels that Statins are the answer. As you say your parents have no side effects which is great news. No doubt you Dr has take then and come back in x months for blood tests and we will see how you are getting on.  Which is the correct procedure. I woudl suggest that you try the statins and give it a go. BUT you shodul keep a diary of how you feel and aches pains or twinges that you get. So that when you next sit down with your Dr you can discuss the whole issue including how you feel about taking statins. As part of this process I suggest that you take lots of exercise and depending on your weight and BMI reduce your weight change you diet if you have to as these all impact on your cholesterol levels. This is all about you taking ownership of your body and any aliments you may get in life. I have found that doing this with my GP's has changed their approach to me and any ailments I get. I used to have very high cholesterol and now its below 5. Do I take medication yes I do but not statins as I asked to be refered to a lipid clinic where they can provide alternatives. Yes they tried me on statins but I was not on them for long. Exercise and diet can help you a great deal. 

The choice is yours its your body. I wish you well on getting this matter resolved.