Statins

Atorvastatin (Lipitor®) and simvastatin (Vytorin®, Zorcor®) are among the statins presently being studied as potential treatments for RRMS.

Statins are oral medications prescribed to lower cholesterol.

Exhibit immunomodulatory effects, with anti-inflammatory properties.

Successful in animal studies with MS-like disorder
Open-label clinical trial with simvastatin showed decrease in new MRI lesions.

Small trial combining atorvastatin with Rebif in MS patients (whose disease was stable) found that while the combination was well-tolerated, MRI and clinical disease activity increased; this study with Rebif indicates that statins block the positive effects of interferons and is not recommended.

Results expected soon from a large study with atorvastatin in patients with CIS.

A study is planned for simvastatin to be added on to treatment with Copaxone for individuals with RRMS; also study with simvastatin versus placebo with acute optic neuritis.