Early use of statins in acute coronary syndromes.
This review examines the use of statin medications early in the clinical course of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Available data demonstrate that there are clear clinical benefits to this practice. Numerous previous studies have documented the primary and secondary benefits of statins in the prevention of coronary events. Recent trials show that when statins are used during hospital admissions for ACS, patients experience decreased recurrent myocardial infarction, lower death rates, and fewer repeat hospitalizations for ischemia or revascularization. Several studies suggest that the positive effects of statins on plaque stabilization, inflammation, thrombosis, and endothelial function may be independent of lipid levels. There is also an emerging view that beneficial lipid-lowering with statins in high-risk patients has no lower limit. This information suggests that all patients admitted for ACS should be treated with statins, regardless of cholesterol levels.
Spin
Joshua M
JM
Stanford University Medical Center, Falk CVRB-279, Stanford, CA 94305-5246, USA. jspin@cvmed.stanford.edu
Vagelos
Randall H
RH
D000208:Acute Disease; D003327:Coronary Disease / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D006801:Humans; D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D013577:Syndrome; D013997:Time Factors
D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors