Pfizer reports positive Lipitor trial results

Pfizer has announced positive study results for Lipitor (atorvastatin calcium), with administration of the compound in post-stroke or mini-stroke patients resulting in an improvement or stabilisation in liver function.

The results, presented to the annual scientific sessions of the American Heart Association, were consistent in patients with or without type two diabetes, metabolic syndrome or chronic kidney disease.

In the stroke prevention by aggressive reduction of cholesterol levels study, patients received 80 mg of the compound in tablet form, with adverse effects from increased liver enzyme levels and muscle weakening low and consistent with existing safety profiles for the drug.

Vito Campese, chief of the division of nephrology and hypertension at the University of Southern California, said: “These results are especially significant for post-stroke diabetic patients because they are more likely to develop progressive kidney disease.

He added that this may reduce cardiovascular events in these patients, with these findings being similar to those from the earlier treating to new targets study.

Last month, Pfizer announced its intention to appeal a decision from a German court relating to its patent over the active ingredient in Lipitor following a legal challenge from generics manufacturers Ranbaxy Laboratories and Basics.