Simvastatin reduced mortality and vascular events in high-risk patients.

P a t i e n t s 20 536 patients who were 40 to 80 years of age (28% were ≥ 70 y of age, 75% men); had nonfasting total cholesterol levels ≥ 3.5 mmol/L; and had a substantial 5-year risk for death because of a history of coronary heart disease (CHD), occlusive disease of noncoronary arteries, or diabetes mellitus or a history of treated hypertension (in men ≥ 65 y of age). Exclusion criteria included a clear indication for statin therapy according to the patient’s doctor; abnormal liver or renal function; muscle problems; concurrent treatment with cyclosporin, fibrates, or highdose niacin; potential for pregnancy; and serious medical conditions. Follow-up was 99.7%.