Background: Recent studies have demonstrated that statins may possess anti-arrhythmic properties in addition to their lipid-lowering effects.
Methods: Studies which reported the association of statins with the incidence of ventricular arrhythmias were identified through a systematic review of the published literature.
Results: Statins have been associated with a significant reductions in ventricular arrhythmia in cardiomyopathy patients with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator, although randomized trials have not been completed.
Conclusions: Published data suggests that statins may possess anti-arrhythmic properties that reduce the propensity for ventricular arrhythmias. Most of this data is observational; more randomized, placebo-controlled trials are needed.