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Strong decrease of high sensitivity C-reactive protein with high-dose atorvastatin in patients with type 2 diabetes

M A van de Ree1, M V Huisman, H M G Princen

  • 1Department of General Internal Medicine, B3-Q83, Leiden University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands.

Atherosclerosis
|December 17, 2002
PubMed

Insights

High-dose atorvastatin significantly reduces C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in patients with type 2 diabetes (DM2). This potent anti-inflammatory effect, independent of lipid changes, may enhance cardiovascular protection.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Endocrinology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Statins are known to reduce C-reactive protein (CRP) levels.
  • The comparative efficacy of high-dose statins for CRP reduction remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the dose-dependent effect of atorvastatin on high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels in patients with type 2 diabetes (DM2).
  • To determine if high-dose atorvastatin offers superior CRP reduction compared to standard doses.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective, double-blind, multicenter study involving 186 DM2 patients with dyslipidemia but no manifest coronary artery disease.
  • Patients received 30-week treatments of 10 mg atorvastatin, 80 mg atorvastatin, or placebo.
  • hs-CRP levels were measured to assess treatment efficacy.

Main Results:

  • Median CRP levels increased by 6.6% in the placebo group.
  • Atorvastatin significantly reduced CRP by 15% (10 mg) and 47% (80 mg) (P<0.001).
  • 80 mg atorvastatin led to 56% of patients achieving CRP < 3.0 mg/L, compared to 23% (10 mg) and 17% (placebo).

Conclusions:

  • High-dose atorvastatin (80 mg) significantly reduces CRP levels in DM2 patients.
  • The observed CRP reduction is largely independent of lipid-lowering effects and IL-6 changes.
  • The potent anti-inflammatory action of high-dose atorvastatin may contribute to its cardioprotective benefits in high-risk individuals.
Abstract

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