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Differential hs-CRP reduction in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia treated with aggressive or conventional

Sanne van Wissen1, Mieke D Trip, Tineke J Smilde

  • 1Department of Vascular Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, P.O. Box 22.700, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Atherosclerosis
|November 6, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Atorvastatin 80 mg significantly reduced high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) more than simvastatin 40 mg in familial hypercholesterolemia patients. hs-CRP reduction correlated with decreased atherosclerosis progression, measured by intima media thickness.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Pharmacology
  • Biomarkers

Background:

  • High sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a key inflammation marker in atherosclerotic vascular disease.
  • Statins are widely used to manage hypercholesterolemia and cardiovascular risk.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the effects of atorvastatin 80 mg versus simvastatin 40 mg on hs-CRP levels and carotid intima media thickness (IMT) progression.
  • To investigate the association between hs-CRP reduction and atherosclerosis progression.

Main Methods:

  • A 2-year randomized, double-blind trial (ASAP study) involving 325 familial hypercholesterolemia patients.
  • Patients received either atorvastatin 80 mg or simvastatin 40 mg.
  • hs-CRP levels and carotid IMT were measured at baseline, 1 year, and 2 years.

Main Results:

  • Both statin groups showed significant reductions in hs-CRP levels over 2 years.
  • Atorvastatin 80 mg demonstrated a greater reduction in hs-CRP compared to simvastatin 40 mg.
  • A significant correlation was observed between hs-CRP reduction and IMT reduction, indicating slower atherosclerosis progression.

Conclusions:

  • Atorvastatin 80 mg is more effective than simvastatin 40 mg in reducing hs-CRP levels.
  • The degree of hs-CRP reduction is linked to the rate of atherosclerotic progression as assessed by IMT.
Abstract

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