Statins may slow progression of MS

ConclusionThis was an early stage, phase II trial, which found that simvastatin reduced the rate of brain shrinkage in patients in the later stages of MS. The results are promising and warrant a larger phase III trial, examining whether the drug could slow the disease in patients at this stage of MS.  It should be noted that although simvastatin had some effect on outcomes in one disability scale and one symptom scale, the trial was primarily aimed at measuring the effect on brain shrinkage, rather than patients’ symptoms.To conclude, it is unclear what effect simvastatin, if any, would have on long-term quality of life for MS patients.A final interesting point is how simvastatin is actually reducing brain shrinkage. If we discovered the mechanisms involved, this could lead to new treatment strategies. Analysis by Bazian. Edited by NHS Choices. Follow Behind the Headlines on Twitter. Join the Healthy Evidence forum. Links To Science Multiple sclerosis patients may benefit from statins, says study. The Guardian, March 19 2014How a daily statin tablet could slow march of MS: Regular dose found to almost halve brain shrinkage suffered by patient. Mail Online, March 19 2014Statins 'may help control multiple sclerosis'. BBC News, March 19 2014Surprise discovery shows multiple sclerosis sufferers' lives are significantly improved by taking statins. The Independent, March 19 2014Cholesterol drug may help MS sufferers. Sky News, March 19 2014
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Medication Neurology Source Type: news