Abstract P074: Time to First Treatment Modification Among New Statin Users

The benefits of lipid lowering therapy (LLT) include reductions in all-cause mortality and fatal CV disease. Studies have shown high rates of LLT discontinuation and poor persistence. This study examined time to treatment modification and types of treatment modifications among patients initiating statin and ezetimibe therapy. This retrospective claims-based study used medical, pharmacy and enrollment data from a large US health plan. Patients had commercial or Medicare Advantage Part D (MAPD) coverage from 1/1/07 to 12/31/12 and were followed for the earlier of 3 years, disenrollment or 12/31/13 (index date= date of first statin and/or ezetimibe use). Treatment modifications included switching, subtraction, dose escalation or reduction, augmentation, reduction, and discontinuation. Patients were assigned to one of three mutually exclusive cohorts: secondary CVD prevention, high risk primary prevention, and primary prevention. Arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) was also identified. The first e...