Potential therapeutic role of statins in neurological disorders.
Statins, the inhibitors of HMG-CoA reductase, are currently among the most commonly prescribed agents for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. It is well established that statins reduce cholesterol levels and prevent coronary heart disease. Moreover, evidence suggests that statins have additional properties such as endothelial protection via actions on the nitric oxide synthetase system as well as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet effects. There is evidence that all these actions might have potential therapeutic implications not only in stroke, but also in various neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and primary brain tumors. In this review, we summarize the protective effects of statins on various neurological diseases. Currently available data suggest that statins are safe and effective in the treatment of these neurological disorders, although further experiments and new data are required.
Bifulco
Maurizio
M
Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, University di Salerno, Via Ponte Don Melillo 84084 Fisciano, Salerno, Italy. maubiful@unisa.it
Malfitano
Anna Maria
AM
Marasco
Giuseppe
G
D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic / Q000639:trends*; D006801:Humans; D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D009422:Nervous System Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors