Possible nephrotoxic effects of high dose statin therapy; current knowledge

Abstract

Implication for health policy/practice/research/medical education: The 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoA reductase) inhibitors (i.e., statins) offer several cardiovascular health benefits, however, the adverse effects of these compounds should be carefully considered. High-dose statin therapy could be associated with renal toxicity. The nephrotoxic effects of statins are directly related to higher treatment doses and indirectly related to interactions with other agents, which may increase the serum concentration of statins. Possible mechanisms that can underlie statin-induced nephrotoxicity include changes in cell membrane permeability, reduced ubiquinone levels, and depletion of isoprenoids due to the inhibition of cholesterol production.