A meta-analysis of 44 clinical trials indicates that atorvastatin is safe and effective for diabetic patients with hypercholesterolemia, according to a presentation at the American Diabetes Association.

Evaluation of data from more than 9,000 patients treated with atorvastatin showed no cases of rhabdomyolysis or myopathy. Additionally, there was no dose response relationship between the overall incidence of side effects and treatment across the dose range of 10 to 80 mg.

“These results further support the excellent safety record of Lipitor [atorvastatin] across the full dose range,” said Antonio Gotto, M.D., presenter. “The results are especially important to people with diabetes, many of whom are currently taking statins.”

Approximately 2.9 million Americans with diabetes also have heart disease. An important aspect of managing diabetes is controlling cholesterol level, a leading risk factor for heart disease.

The ongoing ASPEN trial ? Atorvastatin Study for Prevention of Coronary Heart Disease Endpoints in Noninsulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus ? is evaluating the efficacy of lowering cholesterol level with atorvastatin in prevention of coronary heart disease in patients with type 2 diabetes. The trial is evaluating the outcome of time from initiation of therapy to the occurrence of a cardiovascular event. The trial has enrolled over 2,400 patients at 70 study centers in 14 countries. The study, which is due to finish in September of 2003, is the first major trial to evaluate the efficacy of lipid-lowering treatment with a statin exclusively in people with type 2 diabetes.