LDL-C reduction after initiation of Statins more pronounced in older people than younger persons

USA: A recent study showed a greater reduction in LDL cholesterol levels in older persons treated with low- to moderate-intensity statins as compared to younger people. Therefore, statins may be more appealing as initial treatment for the elderly at increased risk for adverse events.
The study of more than 80,000 persons, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, found that age is a significant independent predictor of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) response to statin treatment initiation.
The initiation of low- to moderate-intensity statins was associated with a greater reduction of LDL-C in older persons than younger persons, regardless of whether the statin was prescribed for primary prevention, for secondary prevention, or among patients with diabetes.
Patient-to-patient LDL-C response varies widely in statin treatment. The reduction in LDL-C may depend on the age of the patient treated. Persons older than 75 years have been underrepresented in randomized clinical trials, which limits evidence about the effects of statin treatment in this age group. While current guidelines recommend statin use for secondary prevention in older adults, the recommendation is less strong for primary prevention.
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