How to choose a statin after kidney transplantation: case analyses

Statins are effective to reduce total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein fractions in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, they have an excellent safety profile. Besides cholesterol-lowering properties, statins have additional actions described in the present case report. The diverse effects of these drugs means that many patients with different disease entities, such as cardiovascular diseases, can benefit from their effects. However, the problem of so called "class effect" remains controversial. The question whether each drug within the group is equivalent appears important, as long as statins must be taken long-term and as the therapy affects patient quality of life and survival. To address this question, we present two renal transplant recipients treated with statins. The induction of pharmacokinetic tolerance and damage to hepatic cells during administration of statins is discussed. Presented data suggest that the choice of statin should be based on individual patient requirements and adapted to the individual treatment response.