Controversy in pharmacotherapy of dyslipidemia – Polish experts’ standpoint Summary of the discussion that took place during the Quo Vadis Cardiologia initiative on January 21, 2011 in Łódź

Abstract

Dyslipidemia is one of the most important risk factors of cardiovascular diseases. It is still major topic of many discussions and studies. Every action that reduces LDL concentration also decreases global cardiovascular risk. Statins are known to by the most effective as far as pharmacotherapy of dyslipidemia is concerned. Still in secondary prevention only approximately 13% of polish patients reach the therapeutic goals. That is why high doses of statins should be used. Moreover, in patients with acute coronary syndrome stabilization of atherosclerosis plaque is essential and that is one of the pleiotropic effects of statins. HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors are safe and well tolerate. Although there are still some controversy as far as safety of very low LDL concentration and the role of statins in primary prevention in young patients with low cardiovascular risk are concerned. All those issues were discussed during the polish expert debate Quo Vadis Cardiologia.