Do Statins Increase the Risk for Herpes Zoster?

In a population-based retrospective study of individuals aged ≥66 in Ontario, Canada, statin use was associated with an 11.6% increase in HZ risk.

More than 60% of all cases of herpes zoster (HZ) occur in individuals aged ≥50. Although suppression of the cellular immune response has been linked to an increased incidence of HZ, the condition can develop in people with no identifiable risk factors. In 2008, 25% of Americans aged ≥45 were treated with statins. Used for their lipid-lowering properties, these agents have also been associated with reduced T-lymphocyte activation and proliferation. Until now, no studies have examined the possible effect of statins on HZ incidence.

To explore this possible effect, researchers conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study involving all Ontario residents aged ≥66 between April 1997 and March 2010. Medication exposure, hospitalization, …

Reviewing Author

Neil M. Ampel, MD

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Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Do Statins Increase the Risk for Herpes Zoster?

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Reviewing Author