Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 11, 2026

Differential Effects of Lipid-lowering Drugs in Modulating Morphology of Cholesterol Particles
Published on: November 10, 2017
Glycaemic Effects of Non-statin Lipid-Lowering Therapies
Patrick D Collins1, Naveed Sattar2
1University Hospital Lewisham, Lewisham High Street, London, SE13 6LH, UK.
Abstract:
Since the publication of the JUPITER trial, attention has been focused on the adverse glycemic effects of statin therapy. Although the modest increase in the risk of new diabetes mellitus is outweighed by the reduction in cardiovascular events for statins, emerging biochemical and genetic links between lipid metabolism and glycemic control raise the prospect of a broader diabetogenic effect of lipid-lowering therapies. For the novel and powerful PCSK9-inhibitor class available evidence does not support a major glycaemic effect with the results of large scale trials awaited although preliminary genetic data does suggest a link. In contrast, there is clear evidence of a diabetogenic effect for the now outdated but well-studied niacin. For ezetimibe and fibrates, evidence is scarce but currently broadly unconcerning. For now, the glycemic effects of lipid-lowering therapies should have a limited influence on clinical decision-making. Further study in this topical area is needed.
Insights
Statins may slightly increase diabetes risk, but benefits outweigh risks. Other lipid-lowering drugs like PCSK9 inhibitors show minimal glycemic effects, unlike older niacin therapies.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- The JUPITER trial highlighted potential adverse glycemic effects of statin therapy.
- Emerging evidence suggests links between lipid metabolism and glycemic control, prompting investigation into broader diabetogenic effects of lipid-lowering drugs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the glycemic effects of various lipid-lowering therapies.
- To assess the impact of statins, PCSK9 inhibitors, niacin, ezetimibe, and fibrates on glycemic control.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing clinical trial data and genetic studies.
- Analysis of evidence regarding the diabetogenic potential of different lipid-lowering drug classes.
Main Results:
- Statins show a modest increase in new diabetes mellitus risk, generally outweighed by cardiovascular benefits.
- PCSK9 inhibitors currently show no major glycemic effect, pending large-scale trial results, though genetic data suggests a potential link.
- Niacin demonstrates a clear diabetogenic effect, while evidence for ezetimibe and fibrates is limited but not concerning.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence suggests glycemic effects should minimally influence clinical decisions regarding lipid-lowering therapies.
- Further research is necessary to fully understand the complex relationship between lipid metabolism and glycemic control.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Lipid-Lowering Drugs: Statins and Miscellaneous Agents
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: α-Glucosidase Inhibitors
Acarbose and miglitol are...
Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4 Inhibitors
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Glinides
Oral Hypoglycemic Agents: Biguanides and Glitazones
Glucagon-like Receptor Agonists
GLP-1, when administered in high doses intravenously, triggers insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, reduces food intake, and restores normal insulin secretion. However, its rapid inactivation by...

