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Statins lower blood pressure as well as cut cholesterol
15-Apr-08
Statins may help to lower BP levels independently of their cholesterol-lowering ability, US research suggests.
Previous studies have indirectly shown that statins could play a role in reducing BP in patients with hypertension.
But this latest randomised controlled trial is the first to focus on the association, and showed that statin use could lower BP by up to 2.4mmHg.
It involved 973 adults with no history of cardiovascular disease (CVD) or diabetes. For six months, 322 participants took simvastatin 20mg daily, 323 pravastatin 40mg daily and the remaining 328 participants were given a placebo.
The researchers found that statins had no impact on BP after one month of treatment, but showed a significant impact after six months. Systolic BP was reduced by an average of 2.2mmHg and diastolic BP by an average of 2.4mmHg among those taking the statins compared with the placebo group.
However, two months after treatment was stopped the beneficial affect on BP was lost.
Arch Intern Med 2008; 7: 721-727
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Comments
John Nichols
15/04/2008
We had a meeting 7 years ago when our local lipidologist was giving us an update on statins use in primary care. I asked if there was any evidence that they lowered BP and the idea was dismissed rather rapidly. I must remind him of this next time I see him! ... J Nichols (Guildford)
Imam Nilufar
15/04/2008
Sounds rational. Anything that improves arteriosclerosis should improve peripheral resistance
jane evans
15/04/2008
Is there any information to indicate that in addition to lowering BP that heart rate might also be lowered?
15/04/2008
Did the participants lose weight during the six months?? What was the average age of both arms?? any diet effect ??
sanjay tanday
17/04/2008
No weight loss was recorded in the study. The average age of both arms was 57
omima ibrahim
21/05/2008
do statins affect liver enzyms?
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