The Effect of Statin Therapy on Inflammatory Biomarkers: A Systematic Review

Matthew C Proute1, Nageshwar Kothur1, Petros Georgiou2,1

  • 1Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA.

Cureus
|November 1, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Statins, or 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors, not only lower lipids but also reduce inflammation. This systematic review confirms their dual benefit in managing cardiovascular disease risk.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Cardiology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Elevated lipid levels and cardiovascular disease are major health concerns.
  • Inflammatory biomarkers are crucial for monitoring cardiovascular disease progression and adverse event risk.
  • HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors are widely prescribed for lipid management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review the anti-inflammatory effects of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors.
  • To assess the impact of these drugs on inflammatory biomarkers in cardiovascular disease.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic literature search was performed using Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) across major databases.
  • Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to select relevant studies.
  • Twelve studies were included and assessed for risk of bias using the Cochrane risk analysis tool.

Main Results:

  • HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors demonstrated a significant lipid-lowering effect.
  • These inhibitors also exhibited a notable anti-inflammatory effect.
  • Most included studies had low risk of bias or some concerns regarding bias.

Conclusions:

  • HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors possess both lipid-lowering and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • These dual actions suggest a broader therapeutic role in cardiovascular disease management.
  • Further research may elucidate the full clinical implications of their anti-inflammatory effects.

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