CLINICAL TRIAL: Rheumatoid Arthritis

A RANDOMISED, CONTROLLED DOUBLE BLIND STUDY TO EVALUATE THE EFFECTS OF SIMVASTATIN IN REDUCING ATHEROSCLEROSIS IN EARLY RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS.

Investigators: Thomas R, White D, Pahau H

The aims of this study are to examine the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering medicine in atherosclerotic disease progression in rheumatoid arthritis. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis symptoms beginning within the past 12 months, and who have no history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease are eligible. Sensitive ultrasound measures of the arteries, and blood tests are taken before and after treatment to assess the progression of disease. Patients are randomly allocated to receive cholesterol-lowering therapy with either simvastatin or no active substance (placebo) for 2 years. Ultrasound and blood measurements are taken yearly to assess progression of arthritis and atherosclerosis. Please contact the Thomas Research Group for further information.