Statins Have Little Effect on Non-CVD Outcomes

Statins do not affect non-cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes, according to the results of a recent analysis.

Previous evidence has suggested that statins could have an effect on non-CVD outcomes. To examine the quality, validity, and credibility of evidence of this association, the researchers conducted a meta-analysis of data from meta-analyses of observational studies and randomized controlled trials examining non-CVD outcomes of statin intake.

Overall, they reviewed 278 unique non-CVD outcomes from 112 meta-analyses of observational studies and 144 meta0analyses of randomized controlled trials. For observational studies, they found no convincing evidence, 2 highly suggestive associations, 21 suggestive associations, and 42 weak associations. Only 1 outcome from the randomized controlled trials (decreased all-cause mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease) attained sufficient evidence with no hints of bias.

“The absence of convincing evidence of an association between statins and non-CVD outcomes supports leaving the current recommendations unchanged.”

—Michael Potts

Reference:

Yazhou H, Li X, Gasevic D, et al. Statins and multiple noncardiovascular outcomes: umbrella review of meta-analyses of observational studies and randomized controlled trials [published online October 9, 2018]. Ann Intern Med. DOI: 10.7326/M18-0808.