Statin Therapy and its Impact on Cognitive Functions in Elderly Patients: A Current Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: Statin therapy is a well-established treatment for cardiovascular disease, with potential implications for cognitive function. However, reports have been inconsistent regarding statin therapy's impact on cognitive function in elderly patients. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the current evidence relating to the cognitive effects of statin therapy in the elderly population. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the databases PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library, up to May 2023. Eligibility criteria included randomized controlled trials and observational studies involving elderly patients on statin therapy, with a focus on cognitive function outcomes. Studies were excluded if they did not provide comparative data for elderly patients not on statin therapy. Results: Out of fourteen studies, representing a diverse population of 68,724 participants, the majority suggested a neutral or beneficial impact of statin use on cognitive function in the elderly population. For instance, a large-scale study involving patients with cardiovascular disease demonstrated no adverse cognitive effects following statin therapy. Another study involving hypertensive elderly patients indicated a possible protective role of statins against cognitive impairment. On the whole, the results were heterogenous, with no substantial evidence pointing towards a harmful effect of statins on cognitive health. Conclusion: The review provides evidence that statin therapy does not appear to negatively impact cognitive functions in elderly patients. Rather, the findings lean toward a neutral or potentially protective effect. Considering the global prevalence of statin use, these findings should reassure clinicians and patients about the cognitive safety of these medications. However, given the importance of this issue, further large-scale studies are recommended to confirm these findings and further elucidate any potential cognitive benefits associated with statin therapy.