The potential effects of short course of Statins on some platelets parameters in rats

Abstract

Background : Platelets play an important role in the process of homeostasis, specifically in atherosclerosis formation when low molecular weight lipoprotein deposit in the wall of blood vessels and plaques formation ,this associated with many inflammatory response one of them is Platelet activation subsequent to the adhesion of platelets to the vascular wall results in the release of mediators that promote platelet aggregation. Aim : Statins as most drugs used for treatment hyperlipidemia have multiple effects including anti inflammatory effects , stabilization of plugs and inhibits platelets activation during atherosclerosis of the blood vessels.Materials and Methods : To evaluate the platelets activation there are many simple parameters can be made like platelets count , platelets distribution width, and mean platelets volume. Platelets parameter considered as marker about platelets activation state. Twenty one males rats were enrolled in our research , divided into three group , each group contain seven rats .First group considered as control group , second group considered was given simvastatin , third group was given atorvastatin. The drug dosing continued for 15 days after that blood was withdrawn to measure platelets count , platelets distribution width, and mean platelets volume. Results : There was no significant differences among control and treatment groups in regard to their effects on platelets count , platelets distribution width, and mean platelets volume (P >0.05). Conclusion : Neither simvastatin nor atorvastatin affect platelets count , platelets distribution width, and mean platelets volume. Key words: Atorvastatin , Simvastatin , Platelets count , Mean platelet volume , Platelet distribution width.