Effects of statins on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease

Abstract

Statins are the standard of care in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia, and their use is supported by extensive evidence demonstrating their effectiveness in primary and secondary cardiovascular risk reduction. However, clinical and epidemiologic data have clearly demonstrated that patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at high risk for cardiovascular disease. However, the efficacy of statins in the reduction of cardiovascular risk has not been definitively confirmed in patients with CKD and especially those with stage 5 CKD or on dialysis. This review aims to provide the current clinical and scientific data pertaining to the effects of statins on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with CKD.