The Effects of Statin Therapy on the Human Airway

Background: Statins have been long known for their lipid-lowering properties however there has been recent interest in their potential to positively influence clinical outcomes in pulmonary disease processes manifesting primarily as airway disorders. Objectives: We review the potential use of statin therapy in respiratory medicine, with particular emphasis on airway disease. We also explore the possible mechanisms for the observed benefits of statins in conditions of the airway. Method: A literary review of published articles related to defining the potential scientific basis for touted clinical efficacy, pertinent clinical data and review articles of statin therapy in airway disease. Results: There was a vast quantity of publications available pertaining to the topic of interest. Conclusion: Statins may have beneficial pleiotropic effects in addition to their actions as potent lipid-lowering agents particularly in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and post lung transplantation. Further human studies are required to substantiate their possible potential as many of the clinical trials performed to date have not demonstrated the translation of results of these promising scientific and observational studies into positive outcomes in well-designed, randomized, placebo-controlled human trials.