Association Between Atorvastatin Exposure and Low Folate Status: A Case-Control Study

Area of Science:

• Clinical Pharmacology
• Nutritional Science
• Pharmacoepidemiology

Background:

• Low plasma folate (PF) status is a concern in patients undergoing pharmacological treatment.
• Atorvastatin (ATV) is a widely prescribed statin medication.
• Understanding the relationship between ATV and PF status is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between exposure to atorvastatin (ATV) and the risk of developing low plasma folate (PF) status.

Main Methods:

• A pharmacoepidemiological case-control study was conducted.
• 640 polymedicated patients were analyzed.
• Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated to assess the association between ATV exposure and PF status.

Main Results:

• A U-shaped curve demonstrated the relationship between ATV dose and the odds of low PF.
• Patients exposed to atorvastatin at 10 or 80 mg showed an augmented risk of low folate status.

Conclusions:

• Atorvastatin exposure, especially at higher doses, is associated with an increased risk of low plasma folate.
• Mandatory folic acid fortification guidelines are recommended for patients receiving atorvastatin (ATV).