Statin Users Show Higher BG Levels

Monitoring blood glucose in hypertensive patients may be beneficial for optimal glycemic control…. 

In a retrospective review, researchers evaluated the association of statin use and glycemic control in a cohort of patients with hypertension. Using systematic random sampling, in a 4-to-1 ratio, researchers analyzed the medical records of 1060 patients with hypertension. Data collected included patient socio-demographic factors, clinical profiles, and prescription medication usage. For continuous variables, independent t-tests were used along with Pearson’s chi square test for categorical variables and logistic regression for confounders.

Of the 1060 medical records evaluated, 76.4% of those with hypertension were on a statin, and 97.8% of these patients were taking 10 mg to 20 mg of simvastatin daily.

After adjustment for current diabetes status, diabetic medication and fasting blood glucose, the difference in HbA1c levels was significant (Adjusted OR = 1.290, P = 0.044, CI 95%, 1.006 to 1.654).

In those with diabetes, statin users had significantly larger HbA1c levels than those not using statins after adjustment for age and diabetic medications (Adjusted OR = 1.208, P = 0.037, CI 95%, 1.012 to 1.441).

The results of this study support the FDA-required label changes. Statin users had both higher HbA1c levels and fasting blood glucose levels, regardless of diabetes status. Further studies are needed to assess the impact of different statins, different dosages along with comorbid conditions and the corresponding impact of these factors on glycemic control.

• Statin use may be associated with a slight elevation in blood glucose levels
• In patients at risk for hyperglycemia, and taking a statin, clinicians may want to consider monitoring blood glucose levels to ensure glycemic levels are normal or at goal
• Further studies are needed to address additional factors, such as type of statin, dosage and comorbid conditions, and their corresponding impact on blood glucose levels

Liew SM, Lee PY, Hanafi NS, et al. Statins use is associated with poorer glycemic control in a cohort of hypertensive patients with diabetes and without diabetes. Array. 2014;6(1):53-. https://www.dmsjournal.com/content/pdf/1758-5996-6-53.pdf