To assess efficacy and tolerability of atorvastatin and its lipid lowering and antiinflammatory effects as well as action on function of endothelium and elastic properties of arteries in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and hyperlipidemia.
Patients with RA (n=50) were divided into 2 groups. The main group comprised 30 patients receiving atorvastatin (10 mg/day) as a component of complex therapy. The group of comparison comprised 20 patients with similar clinical characteristics and baseline lipid levels.
The use of atorvastatin in complex therapy led not only to lowering of levels of atherogenic fractions of lipids but also to substantial lowering of levels of systemic inflammation and diminishment of endothelial damage. Positive action of 6 month therapy with atorvastatin on elastic properties of arteries was demonstrated. Tolerability of atorvastatin was good.
The data obtained allow to recommend the use of atorvastatin for long term management of hyperlipidemia in patients with RA.