The influence of statins on the risk of post-stroke epilepsy

Background Currently, statins are widely used for secondary prevention of stroke due to their pleiotropic neuroprotective effects. Epilepsy is a common complication of cerebrovascular diseases. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of statin therapy on the occurrence of post-stroke epilepsy (PSE). Methods In this prospective cohort study, patients who suffered an ischemic stroke and without history of epilepsy before stroke were enrolled. At baseline, patients were classified according to the particularities of statin therapy. Statin use onset and adherence to treatment were registered as well. After a follow-up period of 1 year, we assessed the occurrence of seizures and PSE. Results Among the 477 patients included in our cohort, there were 91 (19.1%) patients without statins, 160 (33.5%) with simvastatin 20 mg, 180 (37.7%) with simvastatin 40 mg, and 46 (9.6%) with high-potency statins. Overall, PSE emerged in 53 (11.1%) patients. PSE was significantly more prevalent among those who did not receive statins and those with lower doses of simvastatin. Acute onset of statin use was associated with reduced odds of having PSE. Conclusion Adequate treatment with statins after stroke may lower the risk of PSE.