Statins in dermatology.
Statins are competitive inhibitors of 3-hydroxy-3-methylyglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase and reduce low-density lipoprotein-C levels. Statins are well-tolerated drugs used for prevention of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events. Statins possess anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, metabolic, and possible anticancer effects. Statins are reported to be effective against psoriasis, dermatitis, graft-versus-host disease, uremic pruritus, vitiligo, and hirsutism. Topical forms of statins are employed in the treatment of acne, seborrhea, rosacea, and rhinophyma. Animal studies show the beneficial effect of statins against contact dermatitis and wound healing. They have promising anti-HIV effects as well. This article succinctly reviews the various cellular and molecular effects of statins, their applications in cutaneous medicine and their side effects.
Dermatology Department, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz, Iran.
Farideh
F
Jowkar
Mohammad Reza
MR
Namazi
D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012867:Skin / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*
D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors