Highlights
– Achieving very low levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), specifically below 40 mg/dL, is associated with a significant reduction in recurrent major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and ischemic stroke.
– The relationship between achieved LDL-C and cardiovascular risk reduction is monotonic, meaning lower levels consistently correlate with better outcomes down to at least 20 mg/dL.
– Long-term safety data from a median follow-up of over 7 years indicate no increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke or other major safety concerns with ultra-low LDL-C levels.
– These findings provide robust evidence for clinicians to pursue intensive lipid-lowering therapy in high-risk patients with a history of ischemic stroke.
