Abstract

Abstract

Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and statins have been identified to have possible beneficial effects in the management of pneumonia. ACEIs have been shown to increase cough and reduce dysphagia-two mechanisms that could reduce susceptibility to pneumonia. Studies have found a reduction in pneumonia incidence in those taking ACEIs however overall benefit remains unproven. The reason for this is that studies have only been conducted in those with risk factors requiring ACEI treatment. Statins have multiple cellular effects that could be beneficial in pneumonia. Benefit in animal studies has been shown. While associations between statin use and both reduced pneumonia incidence and better outcomes have been found the results are not consistent between studies and a causal effect has not been proven. Randomised controlled trials in the general population, with pneumonia as an endpoint, are required for both ACEIs and statins to determine whether beneficial effects from such treatments in pneumonia occur.