Statins in Intracerebral Hemorrhage

Curr Atheroscler Rep. 2015 Aug;17(8):46. doi: 10.1007/s11883-015-0526-5.

Abstract

While statins play an indisputable role in primary and secondary prevention of ischemic cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease, a concern exists regarding a possible association between low lipoprotein levels and statin use on the risk of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). While these data may incline physicians to discontinue statins after ICH, an increasing amount of preclinical and clinical evidence suggests that statins might have a beneficial effect on outcome and recovery in this context that goes beyond lipid lowering effects. Different etiologies of ICH and the related risk of recurrence should also be taken into account when deciding about statin use/avoidance in patients with high risk of ICH. The problem is compounded by paucity of data from randomized controlled trials and well-designed prospective observational studies. This review will discuss the existing evidence on potential interactions between statins and risk of ICH as well as outcomes in order to provide practical recommendations for clinical decision-making.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cerebral Hemorrhage / drug therapy*
  • Clinical Studies as Topic
  • Humans
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Risk Factors
  • Secondary Prevention
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors