The effect of statins on rate of cognitive decline in mild cognitive impairment

INTRODUCTION: This study's aims are to identify whether a relationship between statin use and rate of cognitive decline exists. The relationship between statins and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) has been investigated in the past with the evidence showing mixed results. METHODS: Seven hundred sixty-eight subjects were identified with MCI. Subjects were stratified into six possible groups according to apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 allele status and statin use and assessed for decline in cognitive function. RESULTS: All cognitive assessments trended toward less decline with statin use. Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale 11 (ADAS 11) showed the biggest difference in mean change between statin users and nonusers (−0.82 vs. −1.22, respectively). Change reached marginal significance on the ADAS 11 when stratified by APOE ε4–negative subjects. DISCUSSION: All cognitive assessments trended toward less decline when subjects were concurrently treated with a statin, supporting the position that statins do not have a net negative effect on cognitive assessment and suggesting a potential treatment benefit.