Progression of precision statin prescribing for reduction of statin-associated muscle symptoms.

Background

Statins are among the most commonly prescribed medications, and improve patient outcomes by lowering cholesterol levels, but also have side effects. Variations in statin response can be attributed to a handful of factors that include pharmacogenetics.

Methods

While not a true review article, this work was written using various search engines and terms and previous and newly published Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium (CPIC) guidelines for statins to provide a historical perspective in addition to the current status of statin-related pharmacogenetics and future perspectives.

Results

This article provides historical background on statins and associated adverse effects, reviews pharmacogenetic implications, applies clinical decision support, incorporates the latest CPIC guidelines and addresses future implications.

Conclusion

Statins are a beneficial medication, but not without risk. Pharmacogenomics can help mitigate some risk factors. Clinical decision support, implementation, research and guidelines will continue to influence statin prescribing.