Role of statins in acute coronary syndromes

Statins reduce major coronary events and all-cause mortality in patients with coronary artery disease. Statin therapy has a proven track record for the secondary prevention of coronary artery disease. The extension of the benefit to patients with acute coronary syndromes can be expected. Apart from their lipid-lowering effects, statins significantly and favourably alter the natural history of acute coronary syndromes. Promotion of plaque stability, improvement of endothelial dysfunction and reversal of coagulation and platelet abnormalities are only some of the effects which are beneficial in the management of these patients. Early potential clinical benefits further strengthen the rationale for starting statin treatment as soon as possible after acute coronary events particularly in patients in whom invasive intervention is planned. This review examines their role in acute coronary syndromes and emphasizes the benefits of early statin therapy.