NPS weighs in on statins
October 31, 2013
NPS MedicineWise has joined the
debate sparked by the ABC Catalyst
program (PD yesterday) which
has stirred responses from several
quarters.
Academics from Sydney
University and ANU as well as now
NPS MedicineWise have made
unequivocal statements of their
position opposing the information
presented in the program, which
will screen tonight and is expected
to downplay the importance
of statins in the treatment of
cardiovascular disease.
In response NPS Medicinewise
has published information for
health professionals on its website
summarising up to date information
on the use of statins.
NPS said the debate on whether
management of cardiovascular risk
places undue emphasis on blood
cholesterol has raised questions
about current prescribing practices
for lipid lowering medicines and the
role of statins in the prevention of
cardiovascular events.
“The guidelines are clear and
the evidence is strong - statins
remain one of the most effective
strategies for reducing the risk of
cardiovascular disease, but patient
selection is key,” said NPS.
“The prescribing of statins should
follow national guidelines based on
absolute CVD risk assessment.
“In people who are deemed
moderate to high risk, statins have
an important, clinically proven role
to play in the prevention of CVD.”
Pharmacists are seen as key in
educating patients about statin
medications to ensure higher rates
of adherence, particularly since
hypercholesterolaemia doesn’t
exhibit with symptoms.
CLICK HERE to access the NPS
position on the use of statins.
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