The effect of statin treatment on glucose homeostasis in prediabetic individuals: A prospective, randomized, controlled trial

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of rosuvastatin and pravastatin on glucose homeostasis and other biomarkers in individuals at high risk of developing diabetes. Methods: This prospective, randomized, open-labeled, and controlled trial included prediabetic individuals with impaired fasting glucose and impaired glucose tolerance. The participants were randomized into three groups: rosuvastatin (10 mg), pravastatin (40 mg), or control. Biomarkers of diabetes and glucose and insulin responses to oral glucose tolerance tests were assessed at baseline and after six months of treatment. The primary outcomes were comparisons of glucose homeostasis and biomarkers of diabetes among groups at baseline and after six months of treatment. Results: A total of 141 subjects with IFG were screened and 41 participants were recruited. Twenty-two subjects were randomized to either the rosuvastatin or pravastatin group and 19 subjects were assigned to the control group. After six months of treatment, all groups had similar cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Likewise, HbA1c levels, glucose, and insulin excursions during oral glucose tolerance test, were similar among the three groups. However, compared to the other groups, the rosuvastatin group had higher HOMA-IR (insulin resistance) and a lower Matsuda index (insulin sensitivity). Conclusion: Among prediabetic individuals with IFG, rosuvastatin treatment was associated with increased insulin resistance and decreased insulin sensitivity compared to pravastatin and control groups. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and clinical implications of these findings. This trial was registered with the statins on glucose homeostasis in subjects with impaired fasting glucose and ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01816997