The use of simvastatin in bone regeneration

Simvastatin is a chemical modification of lovastatin, a rate-limiting enzyme of the cholesterol synthesis pathway. Simvastatin has been reported to promote osteoblastic activity and inhibit osteoclastic activity. It is also reported to have an anti-inflammatory effect that works by decreasing the production of interleukin-6 and interleukin-8. The successful use of simvastatin to promote bone formation in vivo depends on the local concentration, and there have been continuous efforts to find an appropriate delivery system. Different doses produce different effects and doses should be prescribed with caution considering benefits and risks. There have been many studies demonstrating the bone-promoting effect of local application with different carriers in various animal models. Simvastatin is shown to increase cancellous bone volume, bone formation rate, and cancellous bone compressive strength. In this review, the summary was made of the various in vitro and in vivo studies. The effects of simvastatins based on different methods of administration, dosage and carriers were also described.