Determination of the antibacterial activity of atorvastatin against periodontal pathogens, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis: An in vitro study

Aim: The aim of the present study was to determine the antimicrobial activity of pure atorvastatin drug against the primary periodontal pathogens. Materials and Methods: Both minimum inhibitory concentrations and minimum bactericidal concentrations were used to assess the antibacterial effect of atorvastatin against Actinobaillus actinomycetemcomitans and Prophyromonas gingivalis by serial dilution method and culture method, respectively. Results: In the present study, both A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis were sensitive to pure atorvastatin drug. P. gingivalis was found to be more sensitive than A. actinomycetemcomitans in this study. Conclusions: Data suggest a potent antimicrobial activity of atorvastatin against both A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis. Hence, atorvastatin can be prescribed as a dual action drug in patients suffering from both hyperlipidemia and periodontal disease.