Statin therapy for the treatment of diabetic dyslipidemia

The increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes is a major problem for healthcare providers globally, since it is associated with serious microvascular and macrovascular complications. Although microvascular complications can be largely reduced with strict glycemic control, prevention of macrovascular disease involves a multifaceted approach that addresses all major risk factors, including dyslipidemia, hypertension, and insulin insensitivity. In particular, the treatment of diabetic dyslipidemia is a major challenge for diabetologists and cardiologists, as it is characterized by an array of lipid abnormalities. The management of diabetic dyslipidemia should initially include lifestyle approaches such as improved nutrition and weight reduction; however, the majority of patients require the addition of pharmacotherapy. Whilst insulin and/or oral hypoglycemic drugs are generally prescribed for the treatment of hyperglycemia, the addition of lipid-lowering drugs may be necessary for the control of diabetic dyslipidemia. The American Diabetes Association guidelines recommend lowering of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) as a first priority. Hydroxy-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins) are recommended for first-line therapy in diabetic patients, since these agents are effective at reducing LDL-C levels. Whilst statins provide effective control of dyslipidemia in the majority of patients, more efficacious treatment regimens would provide greater benefit to more patients. Combination therapies may provide one solution to obtaining maximal lipid profile modifications, although the introduction of new, more efficacious agents for use as monotherapy may provide a more acceptable option, as drug combinations are often associated with poor tolerability and patient compliance.