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Effects of treatment with Simvastatin in elderly patients with primary hypercholesterolemia

R Terranova1, S Luca

  • 1University of Catania, Chair of Geriatrics.

Rivista Europea Per Le Scienze Mediche E Farmacologiche = European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences = Revue Europeenne Pour Les Sciences Medicales Et Pharmacologiques
|May 1, 1993
PubMed

Insights

Simvastatin significantly reduced cholesterol and lipoproteins in elderly patients. The HMG CoA reductase inhibitor also showed plaque regression and arrested atherosclerosis progression in a study group.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Pharmacology
  • Geriatrics

Background:

  • Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of death and disability, particularly in the elderly.
  • Lipids and lipoproteins are key factors in the development of atherosclerosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effect of Simvastatin on lipid profiles and atherosclerotic plaque in elderly patients.
  • To assess the potential of Simvastatin in managing atherosclerosis progression.

Main Methods:

  • Elderly patients received Simvastatin (20 mg/day) for one year.
  • Lipid profiles, including total cholesterol, LDL, and beta apolipoproteins, were monitored.
  • Atherosclerotic plaque status was assessed to determine regression or arrest.

Main Results:

  • Significant reductions were observed in total cholesterol (p < 0.001), LDL (p < 0.001), and beta apolipoproteins (p < 0.05).
  • Atherosclerotic plaque regression occurred in 5 patients.
  • The atherosclerotic process was arrested in 8 patients.

Conclusions:

  • Simvastatin effectively lowers lipid levels and impacts atherosclerotic plaque in elderly individuals.
  • Further research is warranted to fully elucidate Simvastatin's mechanism of action on atherosclerotic plaques.

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