[Pleotropic Effects of Atorvastatin in Patients With Chronic Ischemic Heart Disease]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Pharmacology
• Vascular Biology

Background:

• Ischemic heart disease (IHD) and hypercholesterolemia are significant risk factors for cardiovascular events.
• Endothelial dysfunction plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of IHD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of low-dose generic atorvastatin (Torvakard) on vascular parameters in patients with IHD and hypercholesterolemia.
• To assess the impact of Torvakard on inflammatory markers and endothelial function.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 52 patients (aged 53-65) diagnosed with IHD and hypercholesterolemia.
• Patients received either 10 mg or 20 mg of Torvakard daily, alongside traditional antianginal therapy, for three months.
• Measurements included C-reactive protein (CRP), endothelin-1, intima-media thickness (IMT), and endothelium-dependent vasodilation.

Main Results:

• Three months of low-dose Torvakard therapy led to a significant decrease in CRP and endothelin-1 levels.
• Intima-media thickness (IMT) was reduced, indicating a positive effect on arterial wall morphology.
• Improvements were observed in endothelium-dependent vasodilation, suggesting enhanced vascular function.

Conclusions:

• Low-dose atorvastatin (Torvakard) demonstrates a beneficial impact on both the morphological and functional parameters of the vascular wall in patients with IHD and hypercholesterolemia.
• The findings support the role of statins in improving endothelial function and reducing vascular inflammation in this patient population.