Key result
Atorvastatin lowers inflammatory markers in pulmonary disease, reducing TNF-α by ~0.20 pg/mL.
Systematic Review (n=1,344)
Mean Difference: -0.2 (95% CI -0.28–-0.11)
Systematic review reports atorvastatin's influence on inflammation and lung function in patients with respiratory diseases, implying potential therapeutic benefits.
Background Pulmonary diseases are important causes of morbidity globally. Atorvastatin's pleiotropic effects, which include anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering properties, may be beneficial for individuals with respiratory diseases. This meta-analysis evaluated the atorvastatin's effect on inflammatory biomarkers, lipid profile, liver enzymes, and pulmonary function in lung disease patients. Methods We systematically searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, CENTRAL, and Google Scholar for English-language RCTs until March 2025. The study evaluated inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6, TNF-α), lipid profile (LDL, HDL, TC, TG), liver enzymes (ALT, AST), pulmonary function tests, and physical performance. Pooled weighted mean differences (WMDs) with 95% confidence intervals were calculated using random-effects models. Subgroup, heterogeneity, and publication bias analyses were conducted. Results Seventeen RCTs (22 datasets; n = 1,344) on asthma, COPD, COVID-19, pulmonary hypertension, and associated disorders were analyzed. Atorvastatin substantially decreased TNF-α (WMD: − 0.20 pg/mL; 95% CI − 0.28 to − 0.11), LDL cholesterol (WMD: − 21.48 mg/dL; 95% CI − 30.82 to − 12.14), and TC (WMD: − 15.24 mg/dL; 95% CI − 28.28 to − 2.20), while improving 6MWD (WMD: 0.71; 95% CI 0.24 to 1.17) and FEF25-75 in COPD subgroups. Evening peak expiratory flow (PEF) was considerably lower (WMD: − 8.72; 95% CI − 14.96 to − 2.47), indicating worsening in airway airflow throughout the evening. There were no significant overall effects for CRP, IL-6, triglycerides, HDL, FEV1, FVC, or oxygen saturation. Conclusions Atorvastatin demonstrates anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering efficacy in pulmonary disease patients, with mild functional respiratory benefits and modest improvements in physical performance. Additional large-scale studies are needed to validate clinical benefits and effective treatment methods.
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Baseri et al. (2026) conducted a systematic review in Pulmonary diseases (asthma, COPD, COVID-19, pulmonary hypertension, and associated disorders) (n=1,344). Atorvastatin vs. Placebo, standard care, or no intervention was evaluated on TNF-α serum levels (WMD -0.20 pg/mL, 95% CI -0.28 to -0.11). Atorvastatin significantly reduced inflammatory and lipid markers in patients with pulmonary diseases, including a decrease in TNF-α (WMD -0.20 pg/mL) and LDL cholesterol (WMD -21.48 mg/dL).
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