Management of dyslipidaemias in the elderly population - a narrative review

Abstract The impact of dyslipidaemias on the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is well documented. However, it is often under-estimated and, sometimes, suboptimally managed in the elderly population. The prevalence of dyslipidaemias seems to decline from the 7 th decade of life in both genders. The association of dyslipidaemias with CVD weakens after the 7th decade, perhaps due to other age-related comorbidities. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol remains the main target in the management of CVD risk. Although the evidence is not robust for the elderly, statins are the cornerstone of the management of CVD. Statins do have a potentially beneficial role in elderly individuals with established CVD and/or a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Data on their use in other elderly populations are inconsistent. There is no clear evidence for a beneficial effect of other hypolipidaemic drug categories in the elderly, such as ezetimibe, fibrates, niacin, omega-3 fatty acids and the new proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors. Their use should be balanced against possible adverse effects, such as the increased risk of myopathy with fibrates. Potential drug–drug interactions should be also taken into account. In conclusion, there is a need to establish the most effective lipid-lowering strategy in the elderly population with respect to CVD risk reduction, in future well-designed trials.