The pleiotropic effects of the hydroxy-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase inhibitors in rheumatologic disorders: a comprehensive review

Rheumatol Int. 2012 Feb;32(2):287-94. doi: 10.1007/s00296-011-2008-6. Epub 2011 Jul 31.

Abstract

The hydroxy-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) are used extensively in the treatment for hyperlipidemia. They have also demonstrated a benefit in a variety of other disease processes, including a wide range of rheumatologic disorders. These secondary actions are known as pleiotropic effects. Our paper serves as a focused and updated discussion on the pleiotropic effects of statins in rheumatologic disorders and emphasizes the importance of randomized, placebo-controlled trials to further elucidate this interesting phenomenon.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antirheumatic Agents / pharmacology
  • Antirheumatic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Clinical Trials as Topic / methods
  • Clinical Trials as Topic / standards
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / pharmacology
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Off-Label Use*
  • Rheumatic Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Rheumatic Diseases / enzymology

Substances

  • Antirheumatic Agents
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors