Background: Statins have anti-inflammatory effects in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study designed to evaluate the effects of atorvastatin on serum highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and pulmonary function in sulfur mustard exposed patients with COPD.
Materials and methods: Fifty patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease due to sulfur mustard and high serum hs-CRP entered in this study. Participants were randomized to receive 40 mg atorvastatin or placebo in a double-blind clinical trial. Forty-five patients completed the study (n = 23 atorvastatin and n = 22 placebo). Pulse oximetry (SpO2), pulmonary function test (PFT), and 6 min walk distance test (6MWD) was measured. COPD assessment test (CAT) and St. George's respiratory questionnaire (SGRQ) were also completed by patients at the beginning of trial and after 9 weeks of prescription of 40 mg/day atorvastatin or placebo. At fourth week, SpO2, PFT, and 6MWD were again measured. After 9 weeks serum hs-CRP was re-measured.
Results: There was no significant difference between atorvastatin and the placebo group in SpO2, FEV1, and 6MWD after fourth week (P = 0.79, P = 0.12, P = 0.12, respectively). The difference between baseline and ninth week was calculated for two groups of trial and control in term of serum hs-CRP, SpO2, FEV1, and 6MWD. Significant improvement was not observed between two groups in above mentioned variables (P = 0.35, P = 0.28, P = 0.94, P = 0.43, respectively). However, the quality of life was improved by administration of atorvastatin using the CAT score (P < 0.001) and SGRQ total score (P = 0.004).
Conclusion: Atorvastatin does not alter serum hs-CRP and lung functions but may improve quality of life in SM-injured patients with COPD.
Keywords: Atorvastatin; COPD; hs-CRP; sulfur mustard.