1,526
Views
72
CrossRef citations to date
0
Altmetric
Reviews

Statin drug interactions and related adverse reactions

, PhD & , PhD
Pages 933-946 | Published online: 07 Aug 2012
 

Abstract

Introduction: Statin monotherapy is generally well tolerated, with a low frequency of adverse events. The most important adverse effects associated with statins are myopathy and an asymptomatic increase in hepatic transaminases, both of which occur infrequently. Because statins are prescribed on a long-term basis, their possible interactions with other drugs deserve particular attention, as many patients will typically receive pharmacological therapy for concomitant conditions during the course of statin treatment.

Areas covered: This review summarizes the pharmacokinetic properties of statins and emphasizes their clinically relevant drug interactions and related adverse reactions.

Expert opinion: Avoiding drug–drug interactions and consequent adverse drug reactions is essential in order to optimize compliance, and thus improve the treatment of patients at high cardiovascular risk. The different pharmacokinetic profiles among statins should be carefully considered, in order to understand the possible spectrum of drug interactions. The growing trend toward earlier statin treatment for the prevention of cardiovascular disease means that physicians must anticipate future polypharmacy when their patients require additional medications for comorbid conditions.

Notes

This box summarizes key points contained in the article.

Reprints and Corporate Permissions

Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?

To request a reprint or corporate permissions for this article, please click on the relevant link below:

Academic Permissions

Please note: Selecting permissions does not provide access to the full text of the article, please see our help page How do I view content?

Obtain permissions instantly via Rightslink by clicking on the button below:

If you are unable to obtain permissions via Rightslink, please complete and submit this Permissions form. For more information, please visit our Permissions help page.