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More mixed findings on omega-3, statins do not harm memory — top stories in cardiology

The top stories in cardiology last week included results from the VITAL trial presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions that showed vitamin D and omega-3 did not reduce rates of first heart failure hospitalization, but researchers found that omega-3 supplementation could prevent recurrent heart failure hospitalizations.

Another top story was about a study that found statin therapy was not associated with greater cognitive decline in older adults over a 6-year period.

Vitamin D, fish oil fail to reduce first HF hospitalization risk

Interventions with vitamin D or omega-3 failed to reduce rates of first heart failure hospitalization in a large cohort of healthy adults, although researchers observed a benefit for recurrent HF hospitalization with fish oil supplementation, according to findings from an ancillary study of the VITAL trial presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions. Read more.

Statins may not confer memory, cognition decline in older patients

Statin therapy in elderly patients was not linked to a greater decline in cognition or memory during a 6-year period, according to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. Read more.

ED visits spike, prescribing patterns change in wake of valsartan recall

When multiple generic valsartan products were recalled worldwide in July 2018 due to the presence of a carcinogenic contaminant, valsartan dispensing immediately decreased. However, there was an immediate spike in ED visits for hypertension and incomplete replacement with alternative products in some patients, according to new data presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions. Read more.

Meth cessation may reverse drug-induced HF

Among methamphetamine users with drug-induced HF, stopping use conferred improved HF symptoms, according to data presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions. Read more.

Icosapent ethyl shows benefit on several plaque characteristics at 9 months: EVAPORATE

Interim data using coronary CT angiography demonstrated benefits of icosapent ethyl as an adjunct to statin therapy on several plaque characteristics at 9 months in adults with high triglycerides and coronary atherosclerosis. Read more.