Statins enhance the anti-inflammatory effects of inhaled corticosteroids in asthmatic patients through increased induction of indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase.

Background: We have previously shown that inhaled corticosteroids activate indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase (IDO) activity through increased IL-10 secretion. Statins might enhance the anti-inflammatory effects of corticosteroids.

Objective: In a double-blind study we added simvastatin to patients with mild asthma receiving a low dose of inhaled budesonide and evaluated sputum eosinophil counts, IL-10 secretion, and IDO activity, as well as their putative signaling pathways.