Effect of beta-hydroxy-beta-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitor atorvastatin on contractility of the isolated rat heart under normal conditions and during oxidative stress

Long-term administration of beta-hydroxy-beta-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitor atorvastatin to rats was accompanied by an increase in the relative weight of the heart and decrease in the rate of pressure development in the isovolumic heart. During oxidative stress induced by addition of 100 microM H2O2 to the perfusate, the decrease in contractile function was more pronounced that in the control. Our results indicate that administration of atorvastatin is accompanied by a decrease in myocardial contractility, which becomes more pronounced under conditions of oxidative stress.