Atorvastatin Attenuated the Inflammatory Outcomes of COVID-19: A Double-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Inflammation is a key feature of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Atorvastatin may help reduce inflammation and limit viral infection. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of atorvastatin on inflammatory biomarkers and the clinical progression of COVID-19. Methods: In this double-blind, randomized controlled trial (RCT), 81 PCR-confirmed COVID-19 patients with moderate pulmonary involvement were recruited. Participants were randomly assigned to receive atorvastatin (40 mg) or placebo daily for 14 days after fulfilling the inclusion criteria. Primary outcomes (inflammatory markers) and secondary outcomes (laboratory factors and clinical progression) were assessed every 7 days. Results: No significant differences were observed between groups in the need for supplemental oxygen and oxygen saturation (SpO2) levels. However, the time to clinical improvement was shorter in those receiving atorvastatin, leading to earlier discharge. Nevertheless, no obvious differences were observed in laboratory parameters between groups. Our findings revealed that atorvastatin could meaningfully attenuate the inflammatory markers and improve lipid profiles, whereas the placebo group showed no significant changes, except for C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Conclusions: Atorvastatin significantly and safely improved the inflammatory state of moderate COVID-19 infection. These findings suggest that atorvastatin may be considered as part of the treatment and/or follow-up protocol for such patients.