Statins

Statins are oral medications most commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol. Their anti-inflammatory properties make them of interest for possible use in MS. Atorvastatin (Lipitor ®) and simvastatin (Vytorin®, Zorcor®) are among the statins presently being studied as potential treatments for RRMS.

An initial pilot trial of simvastatin in an uncontrolled study showed it was safe and reduced MRI activity at six months.

A number of studies are ongoing, primarily in CIS and RRMS. Studies are either alone or in combination with the interferons, Copaxone, or other agents approved for use in MS.

The effects of statins combined with interferons are controversial. In one study, combination of Rebif with atorvastatin (Lipitor ®) increased MRI and clinical disease activity, suggesting that statins may block the therapeutic effects of interferons. However, two other studies did not support this, and more data are needed.