Pleiotropic effects of statins

Abstract

The lipid-lowering actions of statins are well known. However, recent
\nstudies provide compelling evidence that the clinical benefits of
\nstatin therapy may also be attributed to mechanisms independent of
\ntheir cholesterol-lowering effects. These non-lipid-lowering
\n(pleiotropic) effects of statin therapy are believed to include
\nantiinflammatory actions, property to reverse endothelial dysfunction
\nby decreasing LDL oxidation and increasing nitric oxide
\nbioavailability. Their antioxidant actions, ability to provide plaque
\nstability, favorable coagulation profile, ability to prevent platelet
\naggregation and normalize sympathetic outflow as well as their
\nantiproliferative and immunosuppressive properties also contribute to
\nthe non-lipid-lowering effects. These pleiotropic effects shown by
\nstatin therapy offer many advantages over the currently available drugs
\nfor dyslipidemias. These additional benefits not only find therapeutic
\napplication in cardiovascular disorders but also in many other disease
\nstates.