Effect of atorvastatin on pro-inflammatory cytokines during cisplatin administration; a double-blind clinical trial study

Introduction: The primary concern in maintaining treatment with cisplatin pertains to the occurrence of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. After the administration of cisplatin, the prospective evaluation of the effects of Atorvastatin on kidney function and inflammatory mediators was conducted. Objectives: This double-blind clinical trial study was conducted in order to assess the changes in serum levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)and interleukin-17A (IL-17A) after cisplatin administration and to ascertain the protective effects of atorvastatin against cisplatin nephrotoxicity due to the effect on the levels of cytokines. Patients and Methods: In this double-blind clinical trial study, 30 potential candidates for the administration of cisplatin were enrolled. Patients were subsequently categorized into two distinct groups. Group A received 40 mg/d of atorvastatin on the first day of cisplatin and continued for seven days. Group B was provided with a placebo. Following the administration of cisplatin, blood samples were collected for BUN, serum creatinine, magnesium, potassium, TNF-α, and IL-17A on days 0, 8 and 21. Results: Although there was no statistically significant difference in terms of serum urea, creatinine and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) between the two groups; however, within intra-group analysis, atorvastatin caused slower reduction of GFR compared to baseline. Though, no correlation was observed between the level of inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α and IL-17A and atorvastatin administration. Conclusion: Atorvastatin may have the ability to prevent cisplatin nephrotoxicity; however, it does not have any effect on inflammatory cytokines. Trial Registration: The trial protocol was approved by the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trial (identifier: IRCT20140605017982N2; https://en.irct.ir/trial/47349, ethical code: IR.SUMS.MED. REC.1398.024).