HMG CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) for dialysis patients

Dialysis patients are at high risk of heart disease. Statins have been shown to decrease cholesterol levels and mortality in the general population. We aimed to determine if a similar effect has been established in dialysis patients. This review identified 14 studies ‐ 13 comparing statins with placebo and one comparing statins to another lipid lowering agent. Statins decreased cholesterol levels to a level similar to that seen in the general population and were safe. One large study did not find any major mortality benefits with statins even though it reduced the number of cardiovascular events in dialysis patients.