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Statin therapy in heart failure: prognostic effects and potential mechanisms

Jeffrey G Shanes1, Kira N Minadeo, Ann Moret

  • 1Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, The Chicago Medical School, Chicago, IL, USA. jeffsh@ccmconsultants.com

American Heart Journal
|September 26, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Statins for heart failure are debated, but studies show no harm and potential benefits. Ongoing trials will clarify their value, but current guidelines apply to this high-risk group.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Statin use in heart failure (HF) is controversial.
  • Pleiotropic effects of statins may benefit HF.
  • Early trials excluded HF patients due to prognosis concerns.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the role of statins in heart failure therapy.
  • To review evidence on statin safety and efficacy in HF.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing clinical trials and experimental studies.
  • Analysis of safety and mortality data in HF patients on statins.

Main Results:

  • Statin treatment has not demonstrated adverse effects on cardiovascular events or mortality in HF.
  • Recent studies suggest potential benefits of statins in HF.

Conclusions:

  • Two large trials are ongoing to provide definitive evidence.
  • Current National Cholesterol Education Program guidelines are recommended for high-risk HF patients.
  • Statin therapy for heart failure warrants further investigation.

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