Statins and Cardiotoxicity
摘要
Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of statins in reducing cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. Key studies showed a significant reduction in myocardial infarction and stroke when patients were treated with different statins. While statins are generally well-tolerated, a small percentage of patients experience side effects. The most serious risk is rhabdomyolysis, but this is very rare. Statin-associated muscle symptoms (SAMS), including myalgia and myopathy, are more commonly reported. Monitoring creatine phosphokinase levels before and during statin therapy is crucial for patient safety. Statins have also been implicated in possible cardiac toxicity, with some studies suggesting a link to a condition referred to as statin-associated cardiomyopathy. Reports indicate that long-term use of statins could negatively impact heart function, especially in susceptible individuals. However, other studies have demonstrated that statins can have protective effects in patients undergoing chemotherapy for cancer, mitigating cardiotoxic effects of certain antitumor drugs. In summary, statins play a significant role in cardiovascular health through their lipid-lowering and pleiotropic effects. Although they can cause side effects, their benefits in preventing heart-related issues outweigh the risks for many patients. Regular monitoring and individualized approaches to therapy can help mitigate adverse effects while maximizing cardiovascular protection.