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Pleiotropic Effects of Statins: Lipid Reduction and Beyond

Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Departments of Medicine and Cell Biology, State University of New York Health Science Center, Brooklyn, New York 11203; and Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York 11209

Address all correspondence and requests for reprints to: James R. Sowers, M.D., F.A.C.P., Professor of Medicine and Cell Biology, Director of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension Division, State University of New York Health Science Center at Brooklyn, 450 Clarkson Avenue, Box 1205, Brooklyn, New York 11203. E-mail: . jsowers{at}netmail.hscbklyn.edu

Abstract

There is accumulating evidence that statins have beneficial effects that are independent of their classical actions on lipoproteins. These effects include reductions in inflammation in the vasculature, kidney, and bone. Potential beneficial effects of these agents include enhancement of nitric oxide production in vasculature and the kidney. These agents appear to reduce bone fractures and may improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the likelihood of persons progressing from impaired glucose tolerance to type II diabetes. Potential beneficial pleiotropic effects of statins are covered in this review.

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