Dose-dependent effects of atorvastatin on myocardial infarction.

Background: Dyslipidemia is a key factor determining the development of both myocardial infarction (MI) and its subsequent complications. Dyslipidemia is associated with endothelial dysfunction, activation of inflammation, thrombogenesis, and formation of insulin resistance. Statin therapy is thought to be effective for primary and secondary prevention of complications associated with atherosclerosis.

Methods: This study examined 210 patients with Segment elevated MI (ST elevated MI) who were treated with atorvastatin from the first 24 hours after MI. Group 1 (n=110) were given atorvastatin 20 mg/day. Group 2 (n=100) were given atorvastatin 40 mg/day. At days 1 and 12 after MI onset, insulin resistance levels determined by the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index, lipid profiles, and serum glucose, insulin, adipokine, and ghrelin levels were measured.

Results: Free fatty acid levels showed a sharp increase during the acute phase of MI. Treatment with atorvastatin 20 mg/day, and especially with 40 mg/day, resulted in a decrease in free fatty acid levels. The positive effect of low-dose atorvastatin (20 mg/day) is normalization of the adipokine status. Administration of atorvastatin 20 mg/day was accompanied with a statistically significant reduction in glucose levels (by 14%) and C-peptide levels (by 38%), and a decrease in the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index on day 12.

Conclusion: Determination of atorvastatin dose and its use during the in-hospital period and subsequent periods should take into account changes in biochemical markers of insulin resistance and adipokine status in patients with MI.