Study raises questions over use of statins

The results of a British research study raises questions over the wide use of statins. The study was released on Monday and indicated that there is no link between prescribing cholesterol lowering drugs, known as statins, to patients at risk of heart disease and the reduction of premature death in these patients. The study looked at patients who do not currently have heart disease but are at high risk of developing it.

Currently statins are a widely used treatment for heart disease and prescribed to both patients who have the disease and those who are at risk of developing it. As such, it is believed that statins have prevented millions of heart attacks and strokes. Although, the newly released study is questioning if statins reduce the risk of dying in those patients who are in the high risk category but do not currently have heart disease.

The study also looked at the harm the drug could be causing the at risk patients. Taking statins can cause side effects such as a higher risk of liver dysfunction, kidney failure, muscle weakness and more. The study suggested a need for caution when prescribing statins to the at risk population due to these side effects.

The goal of everyone is to better the lives of those at risk and to save lives. While the desired outcome is the same, the process in which to accomplish this may be divided. The study raised some good questions and will make doctors review their current practices in order to ensure the best health possible for their patients.