Effects of atorvastatin on vascular function, inflammation, and androgens in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.

ABSTRACT: To determine the effects of statins on vascular function, inflammation, and androgen levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), we randomized 20 women with PCOS who had low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels >100 mg/dL to atorvastatin (40 mg/day) or placebo for 6 weeks and found that atorvastatin reduced androgen levels, biomarkers of inflammation, and blood pressure; increased insulin levels and brachial artery conductance during reactive hyperemia; and failed to improve brachial artery flow-mediated dilation. We conclude that until additional studies demonstrate a clear risk-to-benefit ratio favoring statin therapy in PCOS, statins should only be used in women with PCOS who meet current indications for statin treatment.

SUBMITTER: Raja-Khan N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3062732 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature