Do statins cause diabetes?

Research suggests that taking certain statins may increase the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, according to WebMD. However, it has not been proven that statins cause diabetes.

A 2014 study shows a 12 percent higher risk for type 2 diabetes over a four-year time frame in individuals who had been prescribed statins, according to WebMD. A 2013 study shows that the chance of developing diabetes is highest for individuals taking atorvastatin, simvastatin and rosuvastatin. Pravastatin appears to have a positive effect on diabetes. Other factors, such as weight gain and insulin effects, may affect the apparent relationship between statin use and diabetes.