2026-02-06
Could statins soothe inflammation?
Rhumatology
By Ana Espino | Published on February 6, 2026 | 3 min read
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by persistent joint inflammation, which can lead to irreversible joint damage, deformities, and significant functional impairment. Beyond the joints, RA is associated with a systemic inflammatory state, contributing to an increased cardiovascular risk, which remains the leading cause of mortality in these patients.
Despite the growing efficacy of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic therapies, many patients experience low-grade residual inflammation that is difficult to control. This limitation raises the question of complementary strategies capable of targeting systemic inflammation without increasing adverse effects.
Among the therapies under investigation, statins—primarily known for their cholesterol-lowering properties—also exhibit documented anti-inflammatory effects, particularly through NF-κB pathway modulation and CRP reduction.
The aim of this study was to test this hypothesis by evaluating the impact of atorvastatin on biological markers of inflammation and lipid parameters in patients with RA receiving standard therapy.
Thirty-eight adult RA patients were randomly assigned to two groups:
These treatments were added to their usual antirheumatic regimen. The study duration was 12 weeks. Primary endpoints included C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and levels of total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides.
At week 12, the atorvastatin group showed a significant reduction in CRP, TNF-α, and IL-6 compared to the placebo group. ESR also decreased, although the between-group difference was not statistically significant. In terms of lipid profile, atorvastatin significantly lowered total cholesterol and LDL, with no notable changes in HDL or triglycerides. No serious adverse events were reported, and treatment was well tolerated overall.
Rheumatoid arthritis remains a chronic systemic inflammatory disease that is often resistant to standard therapies and associated with high cardiovascular risk. The main challenge today is the persistent low-grade inflammation despite DMARDs and biologics, highlighting the need for better-tolerated complementary strategies. This study aimed to assess the potential for therapeutic repurposing of atorvastatin, a widely used statin for lowering LDL, whose anti-inflammatory effects remain underexplored in rheumatology. The results suggest that adding atorvastatin at 40 mg/day can significantly reduce CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α, while also improving lipid profiles, making it a potentially valuable adjuvant option.
However, several limitations remain and justify further research. Future studies should include larger randomized controlled trials, longer follow-up durations, and clinical and functional assessments alongside biological markers. Broader exploration of dose-dependent effects is needed, along with comparisons between different statins, to identify the optimal benefit–risk profile and integrate this approach into a personalized management strategy for RA.
About the author – Ana Espino
PhD in Immunology, specialized in Virology
As a scientific writer, Ana is passionate about bridging the gap between research and real-world impact. With expertise in immunology, virology, oncology, and clinical studies, she makes complex science clear and accessible. Her mission: to accelerate knowledge sharing and empower evidence-based decisions through impactful communication.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by persistent joint inflammation, which can lead to irreversible joint damage, deformities, and significant functional impairment. Beyond the joints, RA is associated with a systemic inflammatory state, contributing to an increased cardiovascular risk, which remains the leading cause of mortality in these patients.
Despite the growing efficacy of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic therapies, many patients experience low-grade residual inflammation that is difficult to control. This limitation raises the question of complementary strategies capable of targeting systemic inflammation without increasing adverse effects.
Among the therapies under investigation, statins—primarily known for their cholesterol-lowering properties—also exhibit documented anti-inflammatory effects, particularly through NF-κB pathway modulation and CRP reduction.
The aim of this study was to test this hypothesis by evaluating the impact of atorvastatin on biological markers of inflammation and lipid parameters in patients with RA receiving standard therapy.
Atorvastatin: a hidden anti-TNF agent?
Thirty-eight adult RA patients were randomly assigned to two groups:
- Atorvastatin group: 40 mg/day
- Placebo group
These treatments were added to their usual antirheumatic regimen. The study duration was 12 weeks. Primary endpoints included C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and levels of total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides.
At week 12, the atorvastatin group showed a significant reduction in CRP, TNF-α, and IL-6 compared to the placebo group. ESR also decreased, although the between-group difference was not statistically significant. In terms of lipid profile, atorvastatin significantly lowered total cholesterol and LDL, with no notable changes in HDL or triglycerides. No serious adverse events were reported, and treatment was well tolerated overall.
A statin in the rheumatology arsenal?
Rheumatoid arthritis remains a chronic systemic inflammatory disease that is often resistant to standard therapies and associated with high cardiovascular risk. The main challenge today is the persistent low-grade inflammation despite DMARDs and biologics, highlighting the need for better-tolerated complementary strategies. This study aimed to assess the potential for therapeutic repurposing of atorvastatin, a widely used statin for lowering LDL, whose anti-inflammatory effects remain underexplored in rheumatology. The results suggest that adding atorvastatin at 40 mg/day can significantly reduce CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α, while also improving lipid profiles, making it a potentially valuable adjuvant option.
However, several limitations remain and justify further research. Future studies should include larger randomized controlled trials, longer follow-up durations, and clinical and functional assessments alongside biological markers. Broader exploration of dose-dependent effects is needed, along with comparisons between different statins, to identify the optimal benefit–risk profile and integrate this approach into a personalized management strategy for RA.
Read next: Diet and Rheumatoid Arthritis: a dose-response relationship to explore
About the author – Ana Espino
PhD in Immunology, specialized in Virology
As a scientific writer, Ana is passionate about bridging the gap between research and real-world impact. With expertise in immunology, virology, oncology, and clinical studies, she makes complex science clear and accessible. Her mission: to accelerate knowledge sharing and empower evidence-based decisions through impactful communication.
Last press reviews
Could statins soothe inflammation?
By Ana Espino | Published on February 6, 2026 | 3 min read<br>
IAVI G004 trial: overview of a next generation HIV vaccine
By Carolina Lima | Published on February 5, 2026 | 3 min read
Liver, sugar, and pills: who's in control?
By Ana Espino | Published on February 4, 2026 | 3 min read<br>