Statins have been used for quite some time to reduce the risk of stroke. A study suggested that it can lead to intracranial haemorrhage. The current study provides no evidence that statin therapy after ischemic stroke raises the risk for ICH.

Other statin-associated risks for ICH such as history of ICH or use of antithrombotic therapy, and possibly the presence of cerebral microbleeds, should be carefully considered in the clinical decision-making process.

Team@CMHF

According to the current study patients with stroke or transient ischemic attack have a risk for recurrent events. Current clinical practice guidelines recommend the use of statins in those with a history of ischemic stroke to reduce the risk for recurrence. However, a recent study suggested that the risk for hemorrhagic stroke was increased with the use of statins.

A population-based study was carried out to examine the association between statin therapy and intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) in those who survive an ischemic stroke, controlling for healthy bias.

New research does not support an association between statin use and ICH in patients with prior ischemic stroke, as was suggested in 2 recent post hoc analyses of clinical trials.

“Physicians should continue to adhere to current treatment guidelines recommending statin therapy for most patients with a history of ischemic stroke,” they conclude.

Reference: http://www.medscape.org/viewarticle/749723?src=cmempStatin