Statin Treatment in Patients With Asthma

Asthma affects 7 - 12 % of the population in North America and results in substantial morbidity and health care costs. Management of asthma is focused towards reducing airway inflammation through a combination of avoidance of inciting and triggering pro-inflammatory agents as well as anti-inflammatory medication. Corticosteroids and anti-leukotrienes are efficacious, but are neither universally effective nor free of side effects. Statins, which are currently widely prescribed and used safely to improve serum lipids and cholesterol, have anti-inflammatory properties which may be clinically useful in asthma either in addition to or perhaps instead of corticosteroids. The objective of this research proposal is to conduct a randomized placebo controlled trial of 4 weeks statin therapy in patients in moderate to severe but stable asthma. We hypothesize that statins may directly reduce airway inflammation and/or contribute to the anti-inflammatory effects of corticosteroid treatment in these patients. We will measure the effects of statins by measuring airway sensitivity to methacholine, pulmonary function, sputum eosinophils, and quality of life in subjects with asthma after 4 weeks of treatment. Statins may become an alternative treatment option or act as steroid sparing agents in patients with asthma.