Research Note: Potential Use of Atorvastatin in Dogs

Atorvastatin, commonly prescribed in humans, is associated with benefits beyond cholesterol-lowering effects. Increased systemic inflammation is a feature of congestive heart failure (CHF), and statins have antiinflammatory and cardioprotective effects. This study evaluated the tolerability of atorvastatin and short-term clinical benefits for dogs with CHF. In phase one, 11 healthy dogs were given atorvastatin at 0.5 mg/kg q24h for 2 weeks, then 2 mg/kg q24h for the next 2 weeks. CBC, serum biochemistry panel, and C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations were measured at baseline and at 2 and 4 weeks. In phase 2, 12 client-owned dogs with stable CHF were treated with atorvastatin at 2 mg/kg q24h for 8 weeks. CHF dogs were monitored via echocardiography, CBC, serum biochemistry panel, blood pressure (BP), and quality-of-life assessment. Results showed that atorvastatin was well tolerated in both groups and was neither associated with changes in liver enzymes nor with owner-reported effects. A decrease in total serum cholesterol was noted at the 2 mg/kg dose but not at the lower dose. Dogs with CHF had significant decreases in systolic BP, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein levels as well as decreases in total WBC and segmented neutrophil counts, indicating a decrease in systemic inflammatory response over the 8-week treatment. No significant change in CRP level was noted. Atorvastatin is well tolerated and may have beneficial effects, including a decrease in systemic inflammation, in dogs with CHF. Further study with larger sample sizes is warranted.

SourceShort-term effects of atorvastatin in normal dogs and dogs with congestive heart failure due to myxomatous mitral valve disease. Cunningham SM, Rush JE, Freeman LM. JVIM 27:985-989, 2013.