Statins for adult osteoporosis: A systematic review

Objectives: To assess the efficacy and safety of statins for adult osteoporosis. Methods: We electronically searched The Cochrane Library (Issue 4, 2007), MEDLINE (1990 to November 2007), EMBASE (1990 to November 2007), Current Controlled Trials, The National Research Register, CBM (1990 to November 2007), VIP (1990 to November 2007) and CNKI (1990 to November 2007). We also handsearched some related journals and identified randomized controlled trials of statins versus placebo in adults with osteoporosis. Results: Two randomized controlled trials were included. We didn't perform meta-analysis due to heterogeneity. No significant differences were observed in the changes of bone density at the lumbar spine and total hip from baseline between statins and placebo. However, a significant increase in bone density was found in response to simvastatin at the forearm. Biochemical markers of bone metabolism changes from baseline did not differ significandy between statins and placebo groups. Conclusions: The evidence currently available does not support the use of statins in the treatment of osteoporosis. Further randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials are needed in order to define the efficacy and acceptability of statins in the treatment of osteoporosis. © 2008 Editorial Board of Chin J Evid-based Med.