Efficacy, Safety and Protective Effects of Lipid Lowering Drugs in Patients with Diabetes

Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the effects of statins and fibrates on the lipid profile of patients with diabetes and to determine their side effects. Methods: It was a transversal study. We included patients with type 1 or 2 diabetes that are followed in an outpatient department, treated for at least 3 months by statins or fibrates.We performed an interrogatory, a medical examination, dietary survey and biological tests for all patients. Results:The mean age was 59.5 ± 9.2 years. Women were 65% of patients. The mean duration of treatment with statins and fibrates was 2.2 ± 2.6 years and 4.9 ± 4.2 years, respectively.Under statin therapy, total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol decreased significantly by 1.02±1.25 mmol/l and 0.32±0.47 mmol/l, respectively, triglycerides and HDL cholesterol decreased insignificantly.Fibrates caused a significant decrease in total cholesterol and triglycerides by 1.15± 2.24 mmol/l and 1.73 ±2.96 mmol/l, respectively and a non-significant decrease in LDL cholesterol and a non-significant increase in HDL cholesterol. No case of significant hepatic cytolysis was noted. Muscle pain was reported by 10.4% and 11.6% of patients on statins and fibrate, respectively.Under statins, the incidence of gastrointestinal symptoms increased significantly. Conclusion: The efficacy of lipid lowering drugs is widely proven. Although side effects are possible, the prescription of lipid lowering drugs should be largely encouraged for better health care of patients with diabetes.