In a nutshell
This study examined the relationship between stroke survival and the use of statins before and during hospitalization for stroke.
Some background
Statins are a class of drugs widely prescribed to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events (such as heart attacks and strokes). These drugs work by lowering the levels of LDL cholesterol (also known as the "bad" cholesterol). Commonly prescribed statins include simvastatin (zocor), atorvastatin (lipitor), and rosuvastatin (crestor).
It is hypothesized that statins may help with stroke recovery as well as prevention, especially in patients who continue taking these drugs during their hospitalization period.
Methods & findings
This analysis included data on a total of 12,689 patients with an average age of 75. Patient data was obtained from medical records. Researchers compared survival between patients who received statin treatment and those who did not. Some patients were already receiving statins at the time of the stroke, while others began statin treatment in the hospital after the stroke.
Results showed that survival rates at 1 year after the stroke were 77.9% in patients receiving statin treatment before or during hospitalization, compared to 66.2% of patients that did not receive any statin treatment. Survival was also improved in patients who only began statin treatment in the hospital. Stopping statin treatment during hospitalization (after the stroke) was associated with increased mortality.
The bottom line
Statin treatment, before or during hospitalization, significantly improved survival in patients hospitalized after stroke.
The fine print
This study was performed using data obtained from medical records and did not involve a head-to-head comparison between patients who had received statins and those who had not. These types of studies are considered less conclusive than controlled trials.
What’s next?
Discuss statin treatment with your physician to reduce the risk of adverse stroke outcomes.
Published By :
Stroke
Date :
Jan 01, 2012
