When should statin therapy typically be initiated after a myocardial infarction?

• A. As soon as feasible, often during hospitalization
• B. At 6 months
• C. Only after discharge
• D. Not recommended

Answer: (A)

Starting statin therapy as soon as feasible after a myocardial infarction is standard practice because it provides the fastest reduction in recurrent cardiovascular risk. Initiating during the hospital stay helps rapidly lower LDL and stabilize vulnerable plaques, improving outcomes during the high-risk early period after MI. Delaying to six months or waiting until after discharge postpones this important protection and is not aligned with guideline recommendations. While rare contraindications exist, the general approach is to begin high‑intensity statin therapy during hospitalization (for example, atorvastatin 80 mg daily or rosuvastatin 20–40 mg daily) and continue long-term with appropriate monitoring.