Scientists from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine gave 200 patients both statins or dummy pills over six two-month periods.
Neither patients, nor their GP, knew which tablet they were receiving at any given time but all had periods taking both.
At the end of each treatment period, participants rated their muscle symptoms being defined as pain, weakness, tenderness, stiffness, or cramp of any intensity.
No difference was seen in the scores between the statin and placebo periods.
The researchers also found no differences for the effect of muscle symptoms on aspects of daily life – such as mood, ability to walk, sleep or work.