Publication Date

4-20-2015

School

School of Health Sciences; School of Nursing

Major

Nursing (B.S.N.)

Keywords

Statins, Renal Dysfunction, Myopathy, Nephroprotection, Nursing Practice

Disciplines

Bioethics and Medical Ethics | Chemical and Pharmacologic Phenomena | Critical Care Nursing | Medical Pharmacology

Abstract

Use of the HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors, also known as statins, in patients with renal dysfunction is laden with controversy. Studies on statin use in renal patients have given varying reports. Some research has indicated that these medications may exacerbate existing renal dysfunction and induce further progression of renal disease. Furthermore, some researchers have suggested statins may actually cause some cases of renal dysfunction through the effects of rhabdomyolysis, acute interstitial nephritis, or necrotizing immune-mediated myopathy, while other researchers have asserted that the statins can have nephroprotective effects. The use of statins is believed to be ineffective in patients who are already in end-stage renal failure, but the research varies on this point, as well. There is currently a lack of researched knowledge regarding the safety and efficacy of HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors in patients with renal dysfunction, as well as the potential causative link between these medications and renal dysfunction.

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