Benefit of adding pioglitazone to successful statin therapy in nondiabetic patients with coronary artery disease.

Author(s): Sugamura K, Sugiyama S, Matsuzawa Y, Nozaki T, Horibata Y, Ogawa H

Affiliation(s): Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.

Publication date & source: 2008-07, Circ J., 72(7):1193-7.

Publication type: Randomized Controlled Trial; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

BACKGROUND: Pioglitazone added to successful statin therapy may be beneficial for coronary artery disease (CAD) patients without diabetes mellitus. METHODS AND RESULTS: Fourteen individuals optimally treated with statin for >6 months were randomized to a pioglitazone or control group. Pioglitazone significantly improved insulin resistance, reduced high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, increased high-molecular-weight adiponectin and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Ultrasound echogenicity of carotid atheroma assessed by integrated backscatter was significantly increased by pioglitazone and correlated with adiponectin levels. CONCLUSION: Adding pioglitazone to successful statin therapy may be an effective therapeutic strategy for patients with CAD.