Atorvastatin for Smokers with Asthma
Author Information
Author(s): Braganza Georgina, Chaudhuri Rekha, McSharry Charles, Weir Christopher J, Donnelly Iona, Jolly Lisa, Lafferty Jane, Lloyd Suzanne M, Spears Mark, Mair Frances, Thomson Neil C
Primary Institution: University of Glasgow
Hypothesis
Short-term treatment with atorvastatin improves lung function or indices of asthma control in smokers with asthma.
Conclusion
Short-term treatment with atorvastatin does not alter lung function but may improve asthma quality of life in smokers with mild to moderate asthma.
Supporting Evidence
- Atorvastatin did not improve morning peak expiratory flow compared to placebo.
- Atorvastatin improved asthma quality of life score significantly.
- Atorvastatin treatment had no significant anti-inflammatory effects on induced sputum cell counts.
Takeaway
This study looked at whether a medicine called atorvastatin helps people who smoke and have asthma. It found that while it didn't help their breathing, it made them feel better about their asthma.
Methodology
Seventy-one smokers with mild to moderate asthma were recruited for a randomized double-blind trial comparing atorvastatin versus placebo for 4 weeks, followed by inhaled beclometasone for another 4 weeks.
Limitations
The short duration of treatment may have missed an effect on clinical or inflammatory outcomes.
Participant Demographics
Smokers aged 18 to 60 years with chronic asthma symptoms for more than one year.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.449
Confidence Interval
95% CI -38.70 to 17.37
Statistical Significance
p = 0.005
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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