Use of statins in the elderly according to age and indication —a cross-sectional population-based register study

ConclusionsIn the oldest old ( ≥ 80 years), statin users were fewer and had more often an established indication, suggesting that physicians extrapolate scientific evidence for beneficial effects in younger age groups to the oldest, but require a more solid ground for treatment. As the oldest old, nursing home residents, and those with multi-dose drug-dispensing were statin users to a lesser extent, physicians may often refrain from treatment in those with lower life expectancy, either due to age or to severely reduced health status. In both age groups, our results however also indicate some over- as well as undertreat ment.
Source: European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Source Type: research