Statin-mediated low-density lipoprotein lowering in chronic congestive heart failure

Am J Med Sci. 2014 Jan;347(1):14-22. doi: 10.1097/MAJ.0b013e318273514c.

Abstract

Many theories and clinical trials have attempted to address the effect of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) lowering in chronic congestive heart failure (CHF). The current evidence suggests that there is no convincing reason for administering statins to patients with nonischemic heart failure. Although they do not reduce the mortality rate, statins reduce LDL cholesterol and may provide some benefit to patients with ischemic heart failure. In contrast, some authors believe that statin therapy may actually worsen outcomes in patients with CHF, especially if there is excessive reduction in LDL cholesterol. This review discusses the theories attempting to link the adverse effects of statin-mediated LDL lowering in CHF to increased levels of endotoxin or reduced levels of coenzyme Q10. In addition, the 2 largest randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials (CORONA and GISSI-HF) were discussed. It is clear that more trials are needed to definitely ascertain the effect of statins on CHF.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Chronic Disease
  • Endotoxins / blood
  • Female
  • Heart Failure / blood
  • Heart Failure / drug therapy*
  • Heart Failure / mortality
  • Humans
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / adverse effects*
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Lipoproteins, LDL / blood*
  • Male
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Survival Rate
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Ubiquinone / analogs & derivatives
  • Ubiquinone / blood

Substances

  • Endotoxins
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
  • Lipoproteins, LDL
  • Ubiquinone
  • coenzyme Q10