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Effect of atorvastatin and clopidogrel on cellular immune function
K Kröger1, M Lindemann, E Kreuzfelder
1Department of Angiology, University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, Essen 45122, Germany. knut.kroeger@uni-essen.de
Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes, and Essential Fatty Acids
|February 20, 2003
Summary
Atorvastatin, a common cholesterol-lowering drug, does not suppress the immune system. Short-term therapy with atorvastatin and clopidogrel showed no significant changes in immune cell function in healthy volunteers.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
Background:
- Statins and antiplatelet agents are foundational in anti-atherosclerotic prophylaxis.
- Emerging research suggests potential immunosuppressive effects of statins.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of short-term atorvastatin and clopidogrel therapy on immune cell subpopulations, apoptosis markers, and cellular immune response in healthy individuals.
Main Methods:
- Nine healthy volunteers received atorvastatin (20 mg/day) for 4 weeks, followed by atorvastatin plus clopidogrel (75 mg/day) for 2 weeks.
- Immune parameters assessed included lymphocyte subpopulations (flow cytometry), apoptosis markers, and in vitro lymphocyte transformation tests with mitogens.
Main Results:
- No significant changes were observed in absolute leukocyte counts, differential counts, lymphocyte subpopulations, or markers of cell activation and apoptosis.
- In vitro cellular immune responses to four mitogens remained unchanged after treatment with atorvastatin or atorvastatin plus clopidogrel.
Conclusions:
- Short-term therapeutic use of atorvastatin does not exhibit immunosuppressive properties in healthy individuals.
- Combined therapy with atorvastatin and clopidogrel also did not alter immune cell function or response.