How Statins May Disrupt Gut Bacteria and Sleep by Affecting the Microbiome-Brain-Body Clock Link, and Timing Treatments to Help

Statins may be associated with sleep disturbances including insomnia and altered sleep quality.

• Clinical and experimental evidence suggests that statin therapy could disrupt sleep architecture and reduce overall sleep quality.
• The gut microbiota may play a critical role in regulating sleep through pathways involving serotonin and melatonin.
• Statins have been shown to alter gut microbial composition, potentially reducing beneficial bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids.
• Changes in gut bacteria caused by statins may disrupt neurochemical signaling related to sleep regulation.
• The review discusses the implications of these findings for vulnerable populations, such as shift workers.
• Potential strategies, including probiotics and dietary changes, are proposed to address statin-related sleep disturbances.

Simplified