HEALTH BEAT
Two new studies are out regarding heart disease, this nation’s number one killer. For more than 30 years, statin drugs have been used to lower that risk. A new study from Boston researchers posted in JAMA finds women are about 20 percent more likely than men to refuse statin therapy when first recommended by their doctor and 50 percent more likely than men to never accept the recommendation. These women were all at increased risk for cardiovascular disease and its negative effects, including heart attack and stroke. Medical records of 24,000 patients within the Mass General Brigham health system from 2000-2018 were reviewed. While the study did not explore why the women refuse this treatment, some speculate that women underestimate their risk of heart disease. Others suggest that concerns about adverse side effects linked to statins, like muscle pain, keep women away. On that front, there’s another new study showing the LDL cholesterol-lowering drug Nexletol (bempedoic acid) can be helpful. It’s a different class of drug than statins and has been used in conjunction with statins for patients who haven’t gotten sufficient response to a statin alone. The new study finds that Nexletol, by itself, can help, without side effects sometimes triggered by statins. Cardiologist Dr. Lance Sullenberger at Capital Cardiology Associates explains that Nexletol is an appropriate choice for those who cannot tolerate or refuse to take a statin drug. But, he adds, given the long history of effectiveness with statins there is no reason for anyone to change to Nexletol if they are having success with statins and no side effects. Additionally, the researchers found statins reduce LDL cholesterol by 40% to 50%, compared to a 20% to 25% LDL reduction with Nexletol. As always, it is best to have a conversation with your physician.