Effect of Rosuvastatin Therapy on Biomarkers of Inflammation and Immune Activation in People With Human Immunodeficiency Virus at Intermediate Cardiovascular Risk

Abstract Background Statins may help prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD) in people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH) with chronic inflammation owing to their pleotropic lipid-lowering and anti-inflammatory properties. Methods The impact of 48 weeks of rosuvastatin therapy on inflammation and immune activation in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in PWH at moderate cardiovascular disease risk was assessed. Results Rosuvastatin did not alter plasma levels of interleukin 6, soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor type 2, CXCL10, soluble CD14, or soluble vascular cellular adhesion molecule 1 (P ≥ .1 for all). Proportions of CD16+ monocyte subsets were increased in PWH receiving rosuvastatin. Conclusions The potential benefits of statin use in PWH with normal lipid levels requires further clinical outcome research. In a cohort of people with human immunodeficiency virus at intermediate risk of cardiovascular disease, rosuvastatin therapy did not improve markers of inflammation or immune/endothelial activation. The use of statins in those with normal lipid levels should be carefully considered.