Objective: To observe the effects of simvastatin and fluvastatin on vascular endothelial function in cholesterol fed rabbits.
Methods: Twenty eight male Japanese white rabbits were randomly divided into four groups. Group A, B and C were fed 1.5% cholesterol chow for 4 weeks, and then group A received continuously 1.5% cholesterol chow for 4 weeks; group B received 1.5% cholesterol chow and
simvastatin 5 mg·kg -1 ·d -1 for 4 weeks; group C received 1.5% cholesterol chow and fluvastatin 20 mg·kg -1 ·d -1 for 4 weeks; group D were fed a normal chow for 8 weeks. After 8 weeks, blood was collected for measurement of lipid profile and thoracic aortae were harvested and cut into 4 mm rings for vascular reactivity. Dose response curves to
acetylcholine, nitroglycerine and noradrenaline were constructed. Results: Total and LDL cholesterol levels in group A were elevated significantly and decreased in group B and C. In group A, endothelium dependent relaxation to acetylcholine was significantly impaired and contractive responses to noradrenaline were significantly increased. But there was no significant difference among group B, C and D in response to acetylcholine and noradrenaline. Conclusion: Simvastatin and fluvastatin can prevent endothelial dysfunction in cholesterol fed rabbits. There is no difference between them.