How do statins affect C-reactive protein levels?

Statins are well-known lipid-lowering agents that primarily function by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis in the liver. In addition to lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, statins have been shown to exert anti-inflammatory effects, which play a crucial role in their cardiovascular benefits.

One of the biomarkers of inflammation is C-reactive protein (CRP). Statins lower C-reactive protein levels, which is significant because elevated CRP levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events. By reducing CRP levels, statins contribute to a decrease in inflammation within the vascular system, further supporting cardiovascular health beyond their cholesterol-lowering effects.

This dual action—lowering LDL cholesterol and CRP—highlights the importance of statins in managing cardiovascular risk, reinforcing their role not just as cholesterol-lowering drugs, but also as agents that modify inflammatory processes related to atherosclerosis.