[Lipid-lowering treatment and liver dysfunction]

Rev Med Suisse. 2012 Mar 7;8(331):507-8, 510-2.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Statins are a cornerstone of cardiovascular prevention. Their utilization is mostly well tolerated and safe: the commonly reported hepatic adverse effect is an asymptomatic, reversible and dose-related increase in liver enzyme levels occurring in case of risks factors. Statins do not worsen liver function in most patients with chronic liver diseases, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and hepatitis C, and might be used cautionsly. However, decompensated cirrhosis and acute liver failure are contraindications for statins. Routine hepatic biochemical test monitoring is questioned and might be performed in following situations: chronic liver diseases, alcohol consumption, drug interactions. Other causes should be screened and treatment be temporarily withheld in case of an ALT elevation > 3 times the upper limit of the norm.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Decision Trees
  • Dyslipidemias / complications*
  • Dyslipidemias / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / pharmacology
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Liver / drug effects
  • Liver / physiopathology
  • Liver Diseases / complications*
  • Liver Function Tests

Substances

  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors