Statins and Their Effect on PCSK9-Impact and Clinical Relevance.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To review the interactions between statins and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibition.

RECENT FINDINGS: Statins are highly effective for reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, statins also raise levels of PCSK9, a protein that increases circulating LDL-C levels by increasing LDL-C receptor degradation. Increases in PCSK9 levels also reduce the LDL-C response to statin therapy. The interactions between statins, PCSK9, LDL-C, and cardiovascular risk are multifaceted and are influenced by genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors as well as lipid-lowering therapies.