Comparison of atorvastatin and simvastatin in hypolipemic effect and atheromatous plaque resolution of carotid artery in senile patients with hyperlipemia

Objective: To compare the effects of atorvastatin versus simvastatin on lipid-lowering and atheromatous plaque resolution of carotid artery in senile patients with hyperlipemia. Methods: A total of 143 gerontal patients with hyperlipemia and carotid atheromatous plaques were randomly divided into atorvastatin group(n=72) and simvastatin group(n=71),and both groups received atorvastatin(10mg/d) and simvastatin(20mg/d) for 12 weeks,respectively.The blood lipid,liver and renal function,and the carotid plaques before and after the treatment were determined by biochemical analyzer and Doppler ultrasonography,respectively.Results: TC and TG levels decreased,and HDL-C contents increased significantly after atorvastatin or simvastatin treatment(P0.01).The atheromatous plaques of carotid artery in both groups showed obvious resolution,especially in atorvastatin group.Conclusion: The lipid-lowering efficacy and carotid plaque resolution of atorvastatin are superior to those of simvastain in elderly patients with hyperlipemia.