US Pharm. 2009;34(12):10.
San Diego, CA — New research shows that statin drugs may negatively impact some patients with cardiac disorders. A new study presented at the 75th annual international scientific assembly of the American College of Chest Physicians found that statins benefit patients with systolic heart failure (SHF), but not those with diastolic heart failure (DHF). These patients experienced increased dyspnea, fatigue, and decreased exercise tolerance. “It is possible that statins would help patients with systolic heart failure more than patients with diastolic heart failure due to the cholesterol-lowering and anti-inflammatory effects of statins,” said Lawrence P. Cahalin, PhD, PT, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts. Despite the new data, researchers feel that the benefits of using statins in patients with SHF and DHF outweigh the risks.
