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Rapid Communication - Current Trends in Cardiology (2023) Volume 7, Issue 5
Managing high cholesterol in pediatric patients: a look at statin therapy
Graciane Radaelli*
Department of Cardiologia, Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia, Porto Alegre, Brazil
- *Corresponding Author:
- Graciane Radaelli
Department of Cardiologia
Fundação Universitária de Cardiologia
Porto Alegre, Brazil.
E-mail:Gracianeradaelli@gmail.com
Received:28-Apr-2023, Manuscript No. AACC-23-99165; Editor assigned: 02-May-2023,PreQC No. AACC-23-99165(PQ); Reviewed:16-May-2023,QC No. AACC-23-99165; Revised:20-May-2023, Manuscript No. AACC-23-99165 (R); Published:27-May-2023,DOI:10.35841/aacc-7.5.162
Citation: Radaelli G. Managing high cholesterol in pediatric patients: a look at statin therapy. J Cell Biol Metab. 2023;7(5):162
Abstract
Statins are a group of medications used to lower cholesterol levels in the body. They are commonly prescribed to adults who have high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is also known as “bad” cholesterol. However, in recent years, there has been increasing interest in the use of statins in pediatric patients. This article will explore the use of statins in children and adolescents, including their effectiveness, potential risks, and the controversy surrounding their use.
Keywords
Asthma, Drug repositioning, Drug repurposing, Inflammatory lung disease, Inhalation.
Introduction
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children and adolescents with high LDL cholesterol levels receive lifestyle modifications as the first line of treatment. This includes dietary changes, increased physical activity, and weight management. However, some children may still have high LDL cholesterol levels despite these interventions, and in these cases, statin therapy may be considered. Studies have shown that statins can effectively lower LDL cholesterol levels in children and adolescents. In fact, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that treatment with a statin reduced LDL cholesterol levels by an average of 40% in children with familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic condition that causes high cholesterol levels [1].
Another study found that statin therapy was associated with a 36% reduction in LDL cholesterol levels in children with atherosclerosis, a condition in which the arteries become narrowed and hardened due to the buildup of plaque. In addition to their ability to lower LDL cholesterol levels, statins have also been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in adults. It is believed that this benefit may also apply to children and adolescents who have high LDL cholesterol levels. However, there is currently limited data on the long-term cardiovascular effects of statin therapy in pediatric patients [2].
Despite their potential benefits, the use of statins in pediatric patients is not without controversy. One concern is the potential for adverse effects, including muscle damage, liver damage, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. However, studies have shown that the risk of these side effects is relatively low in children and adolescents who are treated with statins. For example, a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that the incidence of muscle damage and liver damage in children who were treated with statins was similar to that of children who were not treated with statins. Another concern is the impact of statin therapy on growth and development in children and adolescents [3].
Some studies have suggested that statin therapy may lead to a decrease in growth and development, although the magnitude of this effect is unclear. In addition, there are concerns that statin therapy may interfere with the normal development of the brain, although this has not been definitively proven. Given the potential risks and benefits of statin therapy in pediatric patients, it is important that the decision to use statins be made on a case-by-case basis. In general, statin therapy may be considered in children and adolescents who have a genetic condition that causes high cholesterol levels or who have atherosclerosis [4].
It is important to note, however, that lifestyle modifications should always be the first line of treatment, and statin therapy should only be considered if these interventions are not effective. In addition to statin therapy, there are other medications that may be used to lower cholesterol levels in pediatric patients. For example, bile acid sequestrants are a type of medication that can effectively lower LDL cholesterol levels in children and adolescents. These medications work by binding to bile acids in the intestine, which reduces the amount of cholesterol that is absorbed into the bloodstream [5].
Conclusion
The use of statins in pediatric patients is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of the potential benefits and risks. While statin therapy can effectively lower LDL cholesterol levels in children and adolescents with certain conditions, such as familial hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis, lifestyle modifications should always be the first line of treatment. The potential risks associated with statin therapy in pediatric patients, such as muscle damage, liver damage, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, are relatively low. However, there are also concerns about the impact of statin therapy on growth and development, although the magnitude of this effect is unclear. Ultimately, the decision to use statins in pediatric patients should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the patient's individual risk factors and overall health status.
References
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