Statins and COPD: relationship with inflammation, exacerbations and mortality

The role of statins on the disease course of COPD is controversial. Observational studies have shown a reduction in mortality and exacerbations, but results of randomised clinical trials (RCTs) of statin treatment and its effect on adverse outcomes are conflicting. Recent meta-analyses suggest the need for further RCTs including COPD patients both with and without concurrent cardiovascular disease (CVD). As there are no known detrimental effects of statins in COPD patients, we conclude in this review, that statins should be prescribed more frequently in these patients due to the common co-morbidity with CVD.