How effective is statin therapy for transient ischaemic attack?

A transient ischaemic attack is a temporary episode caused by reduced blood flow to part of the brain and is a warning that urgent prevention is needed. Cholesterol can contribute to plaque and narrowing in arteries. A statin helps lower LDL cholesterol and stabilise plaque-related risk, but it does not dissolve a clot during an episode or replace assessment of the cause. Clinicians may also use blood pressure treatment, antiplatelet or anticoagulant treatment when appropriate.

Take the statin and other prescribed medicines on schedule, and attend follow-up appointments and blood tests. Do not stop treatment because symptoms have resolved; a TIA can leave no lasting signs while still requiring prevention. Tell your clinician about muscle pain, weakness, dark urine, yellow skin, pregnancy or medicine interactions. Control blood pressure, avoid tobacco and follow advice about activity, food and diabetes care.

Call emergency services immediately for new facial drooping, arm or leg weakness, trouble speaking, sudden vision loss, severe imbalance or a sudden severe headache, even if the symptoms improve. Do not wait to see whether a statin helps. Seek prompt advice for a possible medicine reaction, including severe muscle symptoms or dark urine.

Ask what caused the TIA, what LDL result is being targeted and when monitoring will occur. Clarify how the statin works with antiplatelet or anticoagulant treatment, what symptoms require urgent action and how blood pressure, diabetes and smoking affect your prevention plan.