Intensive statin therapy in coronary artery disease: is lower cholesterol better and safe?

Abstract

Primary- and secondary-prevention trials involving subjects with or at risk for coronary artery disease have previously demonstrated a beneficial effect of conventional-dose statin therapy. Recent trials of high-dose statin therapy in subjects with stable coronary disease or acute coronary syndromes have yielded conflicting results. The aim of this narrative article is to provide a critical and up-to-date summary of the findings of clinical trials of intensive statin therapy, including a brief overview of the safety and efficacy of such treatments.