Study Points To Statins As Possible Safeguard Against Blood Clots

This finding could lead to new treatment methods.

Scientists are investigating the potential benefits of statins for women undergoing hormone therapy. Previous research has linked hormone therapy to an increased risk of serious blood clots, known as venous thromboembolism (VTE). A recent study published in JAMA Network Open explored whether statin use could influence the risk of VTE in women taking hormone therapy.

The study, focusing on women over 50 on hormone therapy, discovered that those who did not take statins had a higher risk of developing VTE compared to those who took both statins and hormone therapy. Susan C. Weller, a Professor at the University of Texas Medical Branch, explained that a decade ago, large clinical trials suggested that statins, commonly used to prevent cardiovascular diseases, might also reduce the risk of VTE. The recent study aimed to investigate this association in perimenopausal women.

Researchers analyzed data from 223,949 women aged 50 to 64 on hormone therapy, with or without statins. The women were divided into four groups, including those taking hormones without a statin, those taking hormones with a statin, those taking statins without hormones, and a control group without hormones or statins.

While women on hormone therapy, regardless of statin use, had a higher VTE risk than the control group, those taking hormones without statins had the highest risk, 53% higher than the control group. On the other hand, women taking both statins and hormones had a 25% higher risk compared to the control group, indicating that statins were associated with a reduced risk of VTE in women on hormone therapy.

This study’s findings may encourage more women to consider hormone therapy, a powerful tool for managing menopause symptoms. The research challenges the longstanding belief that hormone therapy poses significant risks, particularly regarding VTE. The study suggests that statins, widely used to mitigate cardiovascular risks, could potentially make hormone therapy a safer option for menopausal women. The hope is that these findings contribute to destigmatizing menopause and expanding treatment options for women experiencing bothersome symptoms.