High Doses of Cholesterol-Lowering Drug Are Beneficial

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Effect of lowering LDL cholesterol substantially below currently recommended levels in patients with coronary heart disease and diabetes: the Treating to New Targets (TNT) study, by J. Shepherd and colleagues. Diabetes Care 29:1120-1226, 2006

What is the problem and what is known about it so far?

It is known that patients with coronary heart disease benefited more from high doses of a cholesterol-lowering drug (atorvastatin) compared with patients who got lower doses of the same drug.

Cholesterol is a waxy fat-like substance that builds up in your blood.

Why did the researchers do this particular study?

This study was done to see if patients with coronary heart disease and diabetes would have better long-term health from taking high doses of atorvastatin, a cholesterol-lowering drug, compared with patients who took a lower dose of the drug.

Who was studied?

A total of 1,501 patients with coronary heart disease and diabetes were studied.

How was the study done?

Half of the patients got a low dose of atorvastatin, and the other half got a high dose of atorvastatin. Patients continued to take the drug and were checked on for almost 5 years. During that time, patients had frequent doctor visits to check their health.

What did the researchers find?

The patients who took the higher dose of atorvastatin had lower LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol) and less cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) problems compared with patients who took the lower dose.

What are the limitations of this study?

Although this is not considered a limitation, the reader should be aware that the study was funded by Pfizer, which manufactures and sells atorvastatin.

What are the implications of the study?

A high dose of cholesterol-lowering drugs can be beneficial in patients with coronary heart disease and diabetes regardless of their current cholesterol level, age, duration of diabetes, or blood glucose control.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Reducing the Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes

Drug Therapy for High Cholesterol

Fast Facts Series: Keeping Your Heart Healthy Despite Diabetes