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Review
. 2024 Oct;26(10):1197-1204.
doi: 10.1007/s11912-024-01579-6. Epub 2024 Jul 13.

Statins for the Primary Prevention of Anthracycline Cardiotoxicity: A Comprehensive Review

Varun Bhasin  1 , Azin Vakilpour  1 , Marielle Scherrer-Crosbie  2
Affiliations
Review

Statins for the Primary Prevention of Anthracycline Cardiotoxicity: A Comprehensive Review

Varun Bhasin et al. Curr Oncol Rep. 2024 Oct.

Abstract

Purpose of review: The aim of this review is two-fold: (1) To examine the mechanisms by which statins may protect from anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity and (2) To provide a comprehensive overview of the existing clinical literature investigating the role of statins for the primary prevention of anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity.

Recent findings: The underlying cardioprotective mechanisms associated with statins have not been fully elucidated. Key mechanisms related to the inhibition of Ras homologous (Rho) GTPases have been proposed. Data from observational studies has supported the beneficial role of statins for the primary prevention of anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity. Recently, several randomized controlled trials investigating the role of statins for the primary prevention of anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity have produced contrasting results. Statins have been associated with a lower risk of cardiac dysfunction in cancer patients receiving anthracyclines. Further investigation with larger randomized control trials and longer follow-up periods are needed to better evaluate the long-term role of statin therapy and identify the subgroups who benefit most from statin therapy.

Keywords: Anthracyclines; Cardiomyopathy; Cardiotoxicity; Ejection Fraction; Statins.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no competing interests.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
A Mechanisms of Anthracycline-Induced Cardiotoxicity. B Cardioprotective Mechanisms Associated with Statin Therapy
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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