Pleiotropic Effects of Statins in the Framework of Pharmacotherapy of Metabolic Disorders

Statins are the main drugs for lowering blood lipids and preventing cardiovascular diseases. Recently, interest in these drugs has increased significantly due to the discovery of many pleiotropic effects. An important place among them is occupied by the effect on the vascular endothelium, its ability to vasodilate, and the effect on the blood coagulation system. It is also worth noting the strengthening of atherosclerotic plaque in the vessel wall and increased resistance to rupture. In addition, the drugs have a positive effect on bone tissue, having a potential osteogenic effect, have antioxidant and immunomodulatory activity. The effect of statins on the proliferative activity of smooth muscles in combination with anti-inflammatory action reduces the risk of atherosclerosis. The combination of antiarrhythmogenic, anti-ischemic effects and the ability to cause regression of left ventricular hypertrophy determine the additional cardioprotective effect of the drugs. These effects may be promising for the prevention and treatment of various diseases, including as part of combination therapy. This is especially true for pathologies that are associated with impaired lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. Currently, close attention is being paid to patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is known that the course of this disease can be aggravated by complications of concomitant pathologies. That is why it is necessary to study drugs that have pleiotropic effects to stabilize the condition of comorbid patients. This review article examines the mechanisms of development of some pleiotropic effects of statins, and determines the practical significance of these drugs for the treatment of metabolic disorders.