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[Atorvastatin in the treatment of patients with hereditary hypercholesterolemia]

A V Susekov1, T V Balakhonova, O A Pogorelova

  • 1Cardiology Research Complex, 3rd Cherepkovskaya, 15a, 121552 Moscow, Russia.

Kardiologiia
|November 1, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Atorvastatin effectively lowers cholesterol in familial hypercholesterolemia patients. The 20 mg dose was well-tolerated, significantly reducing total and LDL cholesterol levels.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Pharmacology
  • Metabolic Disorders

Background:

  • Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic disorder characterized by high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C).
  • Effective lipid-lowering therapy is crucial for managing cardiovascular risk in FH patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of atorvastatin (20 mg/day) in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia.
  • To assess the impact of atorvastatin on lipid profiles and liver enzyme levels.

Main Methods:

  • A 3-month study involving 19 patients diagnosed with familial hypercholesterolemia.
  • Patients received a daily dose of 20 mg atorvastatin.
  • Lipid levels (total cholesterol, LDL-C, triglycerides, HDL-C), atherogenicity index, and liver enzymes (AST, ALT) were monitored.

Main Results:

  • Significant reductions observed in total cholesterol (32%), LDL-C (41%), triglycerides (16%), and atherogenicity index (45%).
  • A notable increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) of 21% was recorded.
  • Atorvastatin was generally well-tolerated, with no significant elevations in AST/ALT; one patient had a mild, asymptomatic ALT increase.

Conclusions:

  • Atorvastatin 20 mg/day is an effective treatment for managing lipid levels in familial hypercholesterolemia.
  • The medication demonstrated good tolerability, with only 16% of patients discontinuing due to side effects.
  • This dosage provides effective lipid control in FH patients.

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