METHODS: We searched Medline, the international medical database, to conduct a systematic review of the literature on the efficacy and tolerability of statins in CKD and renal transplant patients and on specific recommendations for dosage adjustments in this population.
RESULTS: The efficacy of statins in decreasing total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol levels in dialysis and renal transplant patients is similar to that in the general population. On the other hand, large-scale randomized clinical trials among CKD (4D) and renal transplant (ALERT) patients do not demonstrate that statins significantly decrease rates of cardiovascular disease. They have a beneficial effect on proteinuria and lower the rate of kidney function deterioration in patients with dyslipidemia. Early introduction of a statin in transplant patients did not lead to improved kidney function or prevent loss of the graft. Although most statins are not excreted by the kidneys, the dosage of some must be adapted in CKD patients because of pharmacokinetic modifications induced by renal impairment.
CONCLUSIONS: Statins at appropriately adapted doses have the same efficacy in CKD patients as in subjects with normal kidney function, and tolerance is not a problem. Their effectiveness in cardiovascular prevention in this population has not been demonstrated to date. Results about statin-induced kidney protection are encouraging but further and more specific studies are needed.