The use of statins in primary prevention (2006)

HTA report

The aim of this report is first to investigate the efficacy and effectiveness of statins in primary prevention of cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular events and second to examine the economic implications for Germany - particularly in comparison to existing prevention programs. Finally ethical questions are considered.

A systematic literature search was performed for the period between 1998 and 2004 which yielded 3704 abstracts. Overall 43 articles were included for assessment and 167 for background information, according to predefined selection criteria.

For (primary) prevention of cardiovascular diseases the use of statins as suggested in guidelines is recommended - provided that these guidelines are scientifically evaluated at regular intervals. Regarding stroke, osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s disease definite conclusions cannot be drawn at present. Particular attention has to be paid to the problem of compliance both in statin-therapy as well as in alternative therapies. The cost-effectiveness of primary prevention with statins mainly depends on the development of statin prices.

The report may be obtained for free at http://www.dimdi.de (abstract and summary in English).

ISSN: 1851-8863