New progress of high-dose intensive statin administration in patients prior to percutaneous coronary intervention

Statins exert anti-inflammatory effects, modulate endothelial function, reduce low-grade inflammation and decrease thrombotic diathesis. Together the non-LDL cholesterol-lowering effects of statins are called pleiotropic effects. Statins may reduce cardiac injury, diffuse cardiac necrosis, myocardial infarction and no-reflow phenomenon, which are probably related to the pleiotropic effects of statins. A decreased risk of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) post-PCI might be an extracardiac mechanism that contributes to the reduction of all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality. In this article we will review the evidence supporting the administration of high-dose statins in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention and we will also attempt to highlight the possible mechanisms of action and safety of intensive statins.