Should Statin Therapy Be Continued During Sepsis?

In addition to their lipid-lowering properties, statins may have an anti-inflammatory effect. Studies have suggested improved outcomes and a reduced inflammatory response among patients on statin therapy who develop an infection, and an increased mortality risk if such therapy is halted during hospitalization. However, these agents can have serious adverse effects in acutely ill patients.

To further examine this issue, researchers in Australia conducted a prospective trial among patients hospitalized for infection who met at least two criteria for systemic inflammatory response syndrome and were already receiving a statin. The 150 participants were randomized to receive atorvastatin (20 mg/day) or placebo for 28 days or until hospital discha…