Thursday, August 16, 2007
statins medscape cardiology 16-8-07
No Cancer Signal
In terms of potential side effects, statin therapy was not associated with an increase in any adverse events. No cases of rhabdomyolysis were reported, nor was there a risk of developing liver enzyme elevations. Importantly, there was no increase in the risk of malignancy or renal insufficiency.
"We wanted to look at various different side effects because statins appear to be a wonder drug from many perspectives, but of course we're always reticent to go so aggressive until we have long-term outcomes," said Leeper. "There have been some trials suggesting possible hazards for certain cancers, renal dysfunction, rhabdomyolysis, but in this analysis, in two years of follow-up, we didn't find any risk associated with low LDL levels."
Like other analyses, the study did not address the possible mechanisms of benefit, although it is clear that the benefit of statins extends beyond their ability to lower LDL cholesterol levels. Continued plaque stabilization and the prevention of atheroma development are possible, said Leeper, as are other benefits that have not yet been outlined.
The investigators reported no conflicts of interest.
- Leeper NJ, Ardehali R, deGoma EM, Heidenreich PA. Statin use in patients with extremely low low-density lipoprotein levels is associated with improved survival. Circulation 2007; 116:613-618.
