summary: Interferon beta (IFNb) is a first-line treatment for people with MS, but its efficacy may vary amongst different people. Statins are known to have anti-inflammatory properties. In this unicentre controlled clinical trial carried out with 45 participants, the authors aimed to assess safety, tolerability and efficacy of low-dose atorvastatin, which belongs to the group of statins, plus subcutaneous IFNb-1a (Rebif44®), given for 24 months, in people with MS responding poorly to interferon beta-1a. The people that received the combined therapy (atorvastatin plus IFNb-1a) had better outcome than those that received IFNb-1a alone, in terms of active inflammatory lesions in the MRI, relapses, and risk of increasing disability. The authors have concluded that low-dose atorvastatin may be beneficial, as add-on therapy, in poor responders to high-dose interferon beta-1a alone.

authors: Lanzillo R, Orefice G, Quarantelli M, Rinaldi C, Prinster A, Ventrella G, Spitaleri D, Lus G, Vacca G, Carotenuto B, Salvatore E, Brunetti A, Tedeschi G, Brescia Morra V

source: Mult Scler. 2010 Feb 11

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