The Novo Pitavastatin Therapy After Kidney Transplantation

Abstract

Introduction: Dyslipidemia is an important risk factor for morbidity and mortality after kidney transplantation (KT). Statins are considered the choice treatment for KT dyslipidemia, however the use of Pitavastatin has not been adequately described in this population. The aim of study was to know the lipid-lowering effect and safety profile of Pitavastatin compared with a patients group treated with atorvastatin. Method: Observational descriptive study. Results: Forty-eight patients (73% male, mean age 56 ± 10 years) were included. Fourteen patients received Pitavastatin (mean dose: 2.0 mg/day) and a control group (n = 34) treated with atorvastatin (mean dose: 15.8 mg/day). Clinical and demographic data, lipid profile and other cardiovascular risk factors, renal function and immunosuppressant medication were collected during follow-up (mean: 13.8 ± 13 month). After 12 months of treatment a reduction of LDL cholesterol (147 ± 34 mg/dl to 93 ± 31 mg/dl, P <0.016) and total cholesterol (229 ± 37 mg/dl to 188 ± 27 mg/dl, P <0.046;) were observed in the Pitavastatin group. In Atorvastatin group we also found a decrease in LDL cholesterol (113 ± 32 mg/dl to 92.5 ± 31 mg/dl, P <0.002) and total cholesterol (204 ± 39 mg/dl to 168 ± 37 mg/dl, P <0.003). Pitavastatin therapy was well tolerated, and no significant adverse effects were found. Also, no dose immunosuppression adjustment was required or fasting glucose impairment was recorded in Pitavastatina group. No differences in renal function between two treatment groups were observed (P = N/S). Conclusions: Treatment with Pitavastatinin in KT dyslipidemia reduces LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol similar to atorvastatin without renal function worsening or fasting glucose impairment. There were no alterations in immunosuppressive levels in patients on treatment with Pitavastatin. However, further prospective randomized study are needed to confirm these findings.