Statins and menopausal health

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Cholesterol-lowering statins can reduce health risks both in men and women. While this benefit has thus far been attributed to the lipid-lowering effects of these drugs, the importance of their direct actions on vascular tissue is gaining more recognition. Furthermore, recent studies suggest that statins might also be effective in preventing osteoporosis and Alzheimer's disease. Equally interesting are experimental results showing that statins may inhibit growth of certain malignancies such as the breast.

When statins are combined with hormone replacement therapy (HRT), even greater beneficial effects on the lipid profile can be obtained. To our knowledge we have investigated for the first time direct vascular effects by combining statins with HRT. We were able to identify significant beneficial effects on endothelial function and vascular smooth muscle proliferation. In the context of current discussions on the benefits and risks of HRT in treating patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease, it appears particularly important that interventional studies should be conducted to evaluate the therapeutic relevance of statin/HRT combinations. At present, this is the most important conclusion drawn from the data collected thus far on the combination of these two drug types. There is some evidence suggesting drug-specific effects, particularly adverse reactions and statin interactions, which should be considered when using this combination therapy.