Statin safety in perspective – maximising the risk:benefit

Statins are prescribed worldwide for patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) and also for those at risk of developing atherosclerotic vascular disease. They represent a valuable treatment option for managing lipid levels. However, the well-publicised withdrawal of cerivastatin (Baycol®, Bayer) in 2001 led to concern and much subsequent discussion over the safety of statins. This review looks at the evidence in relation to the benefits and risks of statins and demonstrates that the benefits of statins far outweigh the risks.