The Association of low Serum Cholesterol With Depression and Suicidal Behaviours: new Hypotheses for the Missing Link

This review considers the evidence from epidemiological studies on serum cholesterol lowering & psychiatric disturbances. The available evidence does not seem to substantiate the view that large-scale intervention to reduce cholesterol concentrations could lead to more violent & aggressive behaviour, & generally greater unhappiness. In recent trials using statin treatment, there were slightly fewer deaths from accidents & suicide in the treated group compared with the placebo group. Clinicians should not be deterred from prescribing cholesterol-lowering drugs when they are indicated.(67 refs.)