A new study reveals that combining two low-cost medications—statins and ezetimibe—soon after a heart attack can significantly lower the risk of a second heart attack, stroke, or even death. Researchers from London and Sweden analyzed health data from over 36,000 patients and say the findings could help save thousands of lives. Their message is clear: this simple treatment approach should be used more widely.
Simple Combo Treatment Offers Strong Protection
Cardiovascular disease remains the world’s leading cause of death. For people who have already had a heart attack, the risk of another serious event is highest during the first year. This is when the blood vessels are still damaged and more likely to develop new clots.
Now, researchers from Imperial College London and Lund University in Sweden have found a way to reduce that risk significantly—with a safe and affordable drug combination.
Two Common Drugs, One Powerful Effect
The study focused on a combination of statins and ezetimibe, both of which help lower cholesterol levels. When patients started taking both drugs within 12 weeks of their first heart attack, they experienced fewer follow-up events.
“We could save lives and reduce heart attacks just by combining two inexpensive medicines,” said Professor Kausik Ray from Imperial College London.
“Our findings show a clear path forward. It’s time to update treatment guidelines.”
Data from 36,000 Heart Attack Patients
Researchers looked at 36,000 cases of heart attack in Sweden between 2015 and 2022. Using advanced statistical models, they simulated the results of a clinical trial.
Patients were divided into three groups:
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Group 1: Took both statins and ezetimibe within 12 weeks
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Group 2: Started ezetimibe later, between 13 weeks and 16 months
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Group 3: Took only statins
The first group showed the best outcomes. They reached target cholesterol levels more often and had fewer strokes, heart attacks, and deaths.
“This small change in care could have a huge impact,” said Prof. Ray.
“Ezetimibe is safe, cheap, and available. And the cost? About £350 per year per patient—much less than treating long-term heart damage.”
Time to Update Global Guidelines
Dr. Margret Leosdottir, a senior cardiologist in Malmö and co-author of the study, also called for change. She says many doctors avoid using both drugs together early on, often out of caution.
“Worldwide, doctors tend to avoid early combination therapy to prevent side effects,” said Dr. Leosdottir.
“But our study shows that ezetimibe rarely causes problems and is easy to access in many countries.”
The researchers warned that waiting too long to start the combination can raise the risk of another serious event. Acting early offers strong protection—while delaying treatment puts lives at risk.
With just two widely used medications, health systems could reduce heart attack recurrences and save lives. The therapy is low-cost, safe, and simple to roll out.
The authors hope their findings will lead to fast updates in national and global care pathways—bringing major benefits to millions of patients around the world.