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Lovastatin for the Treatment of Mildly Active Rheumatoid Arthritis

A Double Blind, Placebo Controlled, Phase II, Randomized Study of Lovastatin Therapy in the Treatment of Mildly Active Rheumatoid Arthritis

Status
Terminated
Phases
Phase 2
Study type
Interventional
Source
ClinicalTrials.gov
Registry ID
NCT00302952
Enrollment
64
Registered
2006-03-15
Start date
2007-11-06
Completion date
2012-04-30
Last updated
2022-09-07

For informational purposes only — not medical advice. Sourced from public registries and may not reflect the latest updates. Terms

Conditions

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Keywords

Arthritis, Rheumatoid

Brief summary

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common inflammatory arthritis and a major health problem. The purpose of this study is to determine the safety and effectiveness of lovastatin for controlling inflammation in mildly active RA.

Detailed description

RA is characterized by persistent inflammation of peripheral joints, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and warmth. The inflammation may cause progressive joint damage and destruction, resulting in deformity and loss of function. Both traditional and biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) have been prescribed for RA patients to control existing inflammatory symptoms and affect long-term prognosis. However, DMARD use is expensive, and the long-term safety of DMARDs is unknown. Lovastatin is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor (also known as a statin) used to lower levels of cholesterol and other fats in the blood. The purpose of this study is to examine the safety and efficacy of lovastatin in controlling inflammation in individuals with RA who have mildly active RA disease despite treatment. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two study arms (Experimental or Placebo). There will be four study visits over 12 weeks. At each visit, a physical exam, vital signs measurement, medication history, a pregnancy test (if applicable), and blood collection will occur. Additional safety blood testing will occur at Week 2. Tender and swollen joint counts and a Physician Global Assessment will occur at study entry and Week 12. Participants will also be asked to complete self-assessments at study entry and Week 12.

Interventions

DRUGLovastatin

Two 40 mg lovastatin tablets orally once daily for a total of 12 weeks in a blinded (masked) fashion

DRUGPlacebo

Two placebo tablets orally once daily for a total of 12 weeks in a blinded (masked) fashion

Sponsors

Autoimmunity Centers of Excellence
CollaboratorOTHER
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Lead SponsorNIH

Study design

Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Intervention model
PARALLEL
Primary purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
DOUBLE (Subject, Caregiver)

Eligibility

Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
18 Years to 70 Years
Healthy volunteers
No

Inclusion criteria

* Diagnosis of RA as defined by 1987 American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria * Functional Class I, II, or III RA as defined by 1987 ACR criteria * Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) measurement of greater than 5 mg/L * Mildly active disease with at least one swollen and two tender joints, but no more than six swollen and eight tender joints * If on corticosteroids, dose must be stable and 10 mg/day prednisone (or equivalent) or less for at least 4 weeks prior to study entry * If on DMARD, dose must be stable for at least 4 weeks (methotrexate, leflunomide, azathioprine, etanercept, adalimumab, anakinra) or at least 3 months (hydroxychloroquine, gold, or abatacept) * Willing to use acceptable means of contraception

Exclusion criteria

* Serum creatinine level greater than 1.5 mg/dL * Currently taking a statin or have taken a statin within 12 weeks of study entry * History of an adverse reaction to a statin * Active or recent infection within 4 weeks of study entry * Myositis or an unexplained elevation in creatine phosphokinase (CPK) * Joint replacement surgery within 60 days of study entry or plan to undergo joint replacement surgery during the course of the study * Intra-articular cortisone injections within 4 weeks of study entry * Chronic disorders other than RA affecting the joints, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), psoriatic arthritis, gout, scleroderma, or known reactive arthritis (Reiter's syndrome) * HIV infection * Hepatitis B surface antigen positive * Hepatitis C antibody positive * Treatment with infliximab within 12 weeks of study entry * Treatment with rituximab * Treatment with medications known to be metabolized by the cytochrome P3A4 pathway. More information about this criterion can be found in the protocol. * Require amiodarone or verapamil * Investigational drug or treatment during the 4 weeks or seven half-lives prior to study entry * History of alcohol abuse * History of liver disease, current liver disease (e.g., hepatitis, cirrhosis), or abnormal liver function (AST or ALT greater than 2 times the upper limit of normal \[ULN\]) * Any condition that, in the opinion of the investigator, may interfere with the study * Pregnancy or breastfeeding

Design outcomes

Primary

MeasureTime frameDescription
Change From Baseline in Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) at Day 84Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html
Change From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html
Change From Baseline in Hematocrit (Hct) at Day 84Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html
Change From Baseline in Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) at Day 84Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html
Change From Baseline in Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) at Day 84Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html
Adjusted Mean Change From Baseline in Log Transformed C - Reactive Protein (CRP) at Day 84Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)Blood draw for CRP, an acute phase reactant used to identify the presence of nonspecific inflammation. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. Normal serum CRP reference range in this study is 0-4 mg/L (log transformed: -4.2 to 1.4). Participants with measurements for designated time points were included in analysis. An increased CRP level indicates the presence of inflammation. Reduced CRP levels could mean a decrease in inflammation.
Change From Baseline in Alkaline Phosphatase, Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) at Day 84Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html
Change From Baseline in Total Bilirubin, Creatinine, BUN, Phosphorus, Calcium, and Glucose at Day 84Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html
Change From Baseline in Albumin, Total Protein, Hemoglobin, and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) at Day 84Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html
Change From Baseline in Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, and Total CO2 at Day 84Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html
Change From Baseline in CPK at Day 84Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html

Secondary

MeasureTime frameDescription
Percentage of Participants Meeting ACR20 Response Criteria at Day 84 (ACR: American College of Rheumatology)Day 84 (Wk 12)Patients were ACR20 Responders if they had: at least 20% improvement in both tender joint count (28 examined) and swollen joint count (28 examined), and 20% improvement in at least three of the following 5 remaining ACR core measures: • Patient's pain assessment (Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) 100 mm) • Patient's global assessment of disease activity (VAS 100 mm) • Physician's global assessment of disease activity (VAS 100 mm) • Patient self-assessed disability (Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ)) score • Acute phase reactant C-reactive protein. Participants with measurements for designated time points were included in analysis.
Adjusted Mean Change From Baseline in Serum IgM Rheumatoid Factor by ELISA (ELISA: Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay)Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)Rheumatoid factor (RF) is an antibody often present in the blood of a person with rheumatoid arthritis. In this study, a positive value for RF was 0.5 IU/mL or greater; a negative value for RF was \<0.5 IU/mL. Change= Day 84 value minus Baseline value. In general, presence of the antibody indicates aggressive rheumatoid arthritis and higher risk of joint damage. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis.
Adjusted Mean Change From Baseline in Serum Anti-cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (Anti-CCP) by ELISA (ELISA: Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay)Baseline ( Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)Anti-CCP antibodies are autoantibodies frequently detected in the serum of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. In this study, a positive value for anti-CCP was 8 IU/mL or greater; a negative value for anti-CCP was \<8 IU/mL. Change= subtraction of Day 0 from Day 84 anti-CCP value. In general, high levels of the antibody indicate an aggressive rheumatoid arthritis and a higher risk of joint damage. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis.
Adjusted Mean Change From Baseline in the Disease Activity Score Using C-reactive Protein (DAS28-CRP) on Day 84Baseline (Day 0) to Day 84 (Wk 12)The DAS28-CRP score is on a scale of 0 to 10 and indicates current activity of rheumatoid arthritis (\>5.1=high disease activity; 3.2-\<=5.1=moderate disease activity; \<=3.2=low disease activity; \<2.6=remission). The score uses a combination of four variables: 1) the number of tender joints (of the 28 that are measured); 2) the number of swollen joints (of the 28 that are measured); 3) serum C-reactive protein (CRP) lab value in mg/L , and 4) Patient Global Assessment of Disease Activity. Using a formula, the physician determines the score. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis.

Countries

United States

Participant flow

Recruitment details

Fifteen sites in the United States participated. The first site was activated in August 2006. The first participant was randomized in November 2007 and the last participant was randomized in February 2012.

Participants by arm

ArmCount
Lovastatin 80 mg
Participants were randomized to take two 40 mg lovastatin tablets orally once daily for a total of 12 weeks in a blinded (masked) fashion. In addition to the active ingredient lovastatin, each tablet contained the following ingredients: microcrystalline cellulose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, and pregelatinized starch. Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) was added as a preservative and D&C Yellow #10, FD&C Blue #1, and Yellow #6 were added as dyes.
34
Placebo
Participants were randomized to take two placebo tablets orally once daily for a total of 12 weeks in a blinded (masked) fashion. For toxicity, the dose could either be adjusted to one placebo tablet or treatment could be discontinued. The placebo tablets contained microcrystalline cellulose, NF (Avicel PH 102) and Supro AA Swedish Orange Opaque Capsule Shells, Color 4188.
29
Total63

Withdrawals & dropouts

PeriodReasonFG000FG001
Overall StudyElevated SGOT (AST) lab value01
Overall StudyPhysician Decision11
Overall StudyWithdrawal by Subject23

Baseline characteristics

CharacteristicPlaceboTotalLovastatin 80 mg
Age, Continuous52.6 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 10.4
54.3 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 8.8
55.8 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 7.1
C-reactive Protein (CRP) Level at Baseline12.6 mg/L
STANDARD_DEVIATION 16.4
12.4 mg/L
STANDARD_DEVIATION 13.8
12.2 mg/L
STANDARD_DEVIATION 11.4
Disease Activity Score Using C-reactive Protein (DAS28-CRP)4.2 scores on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 0.4
4.0 scores on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 0.6
3.9 scores on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 0.7
Number of Participants at Baseline Who Were Taking a Biologic Drug11 Participants31 Participants20 Participants
Number of Participants at Baseline Who Were Taking an Anti-TNF Drug10 Participants26 Participants16 Participants
Number of Participants at Baseline Who Were Taking Methotrexate16 Participants36 Participants20 Participants
Patient Global Assessment of Disease Activity - Visual Analog Scale (VAS)4.5 cm
STANDARD_DEVIATION 1.6
4.0 cm
STANDARD_DEVIATION 2
3.5 cm
STANDARD_DEVIATION 2.3
Region of Enrollment
United States
29 participants63 participants34 participants
Sex: Female, Male
Female
28 Participants60 Participants32 Participants
Sex: Female, Male
Male
1 Participants3 Participants2 Participants
Swollen Joint Count at Baseline3.8 swollen joints
STANDARD_DEVIATION 1.6
3.6 swollen joints
STANDARD_DEVIATION 1.5
3.5 swollen joints
STANDARD_DEVIATION 1.4
Tender Joint Count at Baseline4.8 tender joints
STANDARD_DEVIATION 2.2
4.6 tender joints
STANDARD_DEVIATION 2.4
4.4 tender joints
STANDARD_DEVIATION 2.5
Years with Rheumatoid Arthritis at Baseline11.9 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 12.6
12.2 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 11
12.5 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 9.6

Adverse events

Event typeEG000
affected / at risk
EG001
affected / at risk
deaths
Total, all-cause mortality
— / —— / —
other
Total, other adverse events
23 / 3425 / 30
serious
Total, serious adverse events
1 / 341 / 30

Outcome results

Primary

Adjusted Mean Change From Baseline in Log Transformed C - Reactive Protein (CRP) at Day 84

Blood draw for CRP, an acute phase reactant used to identify the presence of nonspecific inflammation. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. Normal serum CRP reference range in this study is 0-4 mg/L (log transformed: -4.2 to 1.4). Participants with measurements for designated time points were included in analysis. An increased CRP level indicates the presence of inflammation. Reduced CRP levels could mean a decrease in inflammation.

Time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)

Population: Intent-to-Treat with available data

ArmMeasureValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Lovastatin 80 mgAdjusted Mean Change From Baseline in Log Transformed C - Reactive Protein (CRP) at Day 84-0.4 mg/LStandard Error 0.2
PlaceboAdjusted Mean Change From Baseline in Log Transformed C - Reactive Protein (CRP) at Day 84-0.3 mg/LStandard Error 0.1
Comparison: The p-value compares Lovastatin with the Placebo treatment group. Log transformed CRP was analyzed to meet the heterogeneity assumption for ANCOVA models.p-value: 0.79ANCOVA
Primary

Change From Baseline in Albumin, Total Protein, Hemoglobin, and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) at Day 84

Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html

Time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)

Population: Safety

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Albumin, Total Protein, Hemoglobin, and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) at Day 84Albumin0.0 g/dLStandard Deviation 0.2
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Albumin, Total Protein, Hemoglobin, and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) at Day 84Total Protein0.0 g/dLStandard Deviation 0.4
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Albumin, Total Protein, Hemoglobin, and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) at Day 84Hemoglobin-0.3 g/dLStandard Deviation 0.6
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Albumin, Total Protein, Hemoglobin, and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) at Day 84MCHC-0.3 g/dLStandard Deviation 0.9
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Albumin, Total Protein, Hemoglobin, and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) at Day 84MCHC-0.4 g/dLStandard Deviation 1
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Albumin, Total Protein, Hemoglobin, and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) at Day 84Albumin0.1 g/dLStandard Deviation 0.3
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Albumin, Total Protein, Hemoglobin, and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) at Day 84Hemoglobin-0.3 g/dLStandard Deviation 0.6
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Albumin, Total Protein, Hemoglobin, and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) at Day 84Total Protein0.1 g/dLStandard Deviation 0.5
Primary

Change From Baseline in Alkaline Phosphatase, Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) at Day 84

Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html

Time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)

Population: Safety

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Alkaline Phosphatase, Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) at Day 84Alkaline Phosphatase-3.0 U/LStandard Deviation 20.4
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Alkaline Phosphatase, Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) at Day 84ALT-1.8 U/LStandard Deviation 10.2
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Alkaline Phosphatase, Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) at Day 84AST-1.2 U/LStandard Deviation 19.7
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Alkaline Phosphatase, Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) at Day 84Alkaline Phosphatase0.4 U/LStandard Deviation 15.6
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Alkaline Phosphatase, Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) at Day 84ALT0.7 U/LStandard Deviation 10.2
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Alkaline Phosphatase, Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) at Day 84AST0.8 U/LStandard Deviation 7.3
Primary

Change From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84

Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html

Time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)

Population: Safety

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84Monocytes0.1 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 0.1
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84Neutrophils0.2 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 1
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84Bands0.0 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 0.1
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84Lymphocytes-0.1 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 0.4
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84Eosinophils0.0 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 0.1
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84Basophils0.0 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 0
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84Platelet Count-8.2 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 34.2
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84Reticulocytes-4.7 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 15.6
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84WBC0.1 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 1
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84Reticulocytes0.0 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 0
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84WBC-0.4 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 1.3
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84Eosinophils0.0 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 0.2
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84Neutrophils-0.6 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 1.3
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84Platelet Count-5.6 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 56.8
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84Bands0.0 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 0.1
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84Basophils0.0 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 0
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84Lymphocytes0.1 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 0.8
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Counts: White Blood Cells (WBC), Neutrophils, Bands, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, Basophils, Platelets, and Reticulocytes at Day 84Monocytes0.0 10^3/uLStandard Deviation 0.2
Primary

Change From Baseline in CPK at Day 84

Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html

Time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)

Population: Safety

ArmMeasureValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in CPK at Day 84-2.4 U/LStandard Deviation 51.2
PlaceboChange From Baseline in CPK at Day 848.0 U/LStandard Deviation 54
Primary

Change From Baseline in Hematocrit (Hct) at Day 84

Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html

Time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)

Population: Safety

ArmMeasureValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Hematocrit (Hct) at Day 84-0.5 % of packed red blood cells by volumeStandard Deviation 2.2
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Hematocrit (Hct) at Day 84-0.5 % of packed red blood cells by volumeStandard Deviation 2.2
Primary

Change From Baseline in Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) at Day 84

Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html

Time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)

Population: Safety

ArmMeasureValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) at Day 84-0.4 pgStandard Deviation 0.7
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) at Day 840.0 pgStandard Deviation 1.3
Primary

Change From Baseline in Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) at Day 84

Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html

Time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)

Population: Safety

ArmMeasureValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) at Day 84-0.4 fLStandard Deviation 2.3
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) at Day 840.7 fLStandard Deviation 3.2
Primary

Change From Baseline in Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, and Total CO2 at Day 84

Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html

Time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)

Population: Safety

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, and Total CO2 at Day 84Potassium0.0 mmol/LStandard Deviation 0.3
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, and Total CO2 at Day 84Sodium-0.2 mmol/LStandard Deviation 1.8
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, and Total CO2 at Day 84Chloride-0.1 mmol/LStandard Deviation 2.3
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, and Total CO2 at Day 84Total CO20.7 mmol/LStandard Deviation 2.6
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, and Total CO2 at Day 84Total CO2-0.5 mmol/LStandard Deviation 2.3
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, and Total CO2 at Day 84Potassium0.0 mmol/LStandard Deviation 0.5
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, and Total CO2 at Day 84Chloride0.5 mmol/LStandard Deviation 3
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, and Total CO2 at Day 84Sodium-0.2 mmol/LStandard Deviation 2.7
Primary

Change From Baseline in Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) at Day 84

Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html

Time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)

Population: Safety

ArmMeasureValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) at Day 84-0.4 % of mean corpuscle volumeStandard Deviation 2
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) at Day 840.2 % of mean corpuscle volumeStandard Deviation 1.1
Primary

Change From Baseline in Total Bilirubin, Creatinine, BUN, Phosphorus, Calcium, and Glucose at Day 84

Blood samples were taken from participants at Baseline and Day 84. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis. Change=Day 84 value minus Baseline value. A positive difference reflects an increased laboratory parameter value over time; a negative difference reflects a decreased laboratory parameter value over time. Normal laboratory values depend on a subject age, gender, and the specific laboratory methods that were used to determine the lab values. Reference: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/appendixes/normal\_laboratory\_values/blood\_tests\_normal\_values.html

Time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)

Population: Safety

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Total Bilirubin, Creatinine, BUN, Phosphorus, Calcium, and Glucose at Day 84Total Bilirubin0.0 mg/dLStandard Deviation 0.2
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Total Bilirubin, Creatinine, BUN, Phosphorus, Calcium, and Glucose at Day 84BUN-0.4 mg/dLStandard Deviation 3.2
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Total Bilirubin, Creatinine, BUN, Phosphorus, Calcium, and Glucose at Day 84Phosphorus0.0 mg/dLStandard Deviation 0.5
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Total Bilirubin, Creatinine, BUN, Phosphorus, Calcium, and Glucose at Day 84Creatinine0.0 mg/dLStandard Deviation 0.1
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Total Bilirubin, Creatinine, BUN, Phosphorus, Calcium, and Glucose at Day 84Calcium0.0 mg/dLStandard Deviation 0.4
Lovastatin 80 mgChange From Baseline in Total Bilirubin, Creatinine, BUN, Phosphorus, Calcium, and Glucose at Day 84Glucose-4.3 mg/dLStandard Deviation 16.5
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Total Bilirubin, Creatinine, BUN, Phosphorus, Calcium, and Glucose at Day 84Calcium0.0 mg/dLStandard Deviation 0.3
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Total Bilirubin, Creatinine, BUN, Phosphorus, Calcium, and Glucose at Day 84Glucose-1.2 mg/dLStandard Deviation 18.6
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Total Bilirubin, Creatinine, BUN, Phosphorus, Calcium, and Glucose at Day 84Total Bilirubin0.1 mg/dLStandard Deviation 0.2
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Total Bilirubin, Creatinine, BUN, Phosphorus, Calcium, and Glucose at Day 84Creatinine0.0 mg/dLStandard Deviation 0.1
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Total Bilirubin, Creatinine, BUN, Phosphorus, Calcium, and Glucose at Day 84BUN-0.5 mg/dLStandard Deviation 2.3
PlaceboChange From Baseline in Total Bilirubin, Creatinine, BUN, Phosphorus, Calcium, and Glucose at Day 84Phosphorus0.0 mg/dLStandard Deviation 0.5
Secondary

Adjusted Mean Change From Baseline in Serum Anti-cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (Anti-CCP) by ELISA (ELISA: Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay)

Anti-CCP antibodies are autoantibodies frequently detected in the serum of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. In this study, a positive value for anti-CCP was 8 IU/mL or greater; a negative value for anti-CCP was \<8 IU/mL. Change= subtraction of Day 0 from Day 84 anti-CCP value. In general, high levels of the antibody indicate an aggressive rheumatoid arthritis and a higher risk of joint damage. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis.

Time frame: Baseline ( Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)

Population: Intent-to-Treat with Available Data

ArmMeasureValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Lovastatin 80 mgAdjusted Mean Change From Baseline in Serum Anti-cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (Anti-CCP) by ELISA (ELISA: Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay)16.3 IU/mLStandard Error 12.1
PlaceboAdjusted Mean Change From Baseline in Serum Anti-cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (Anti-CCP) by ELISA (ELISA: Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay)-1.0 IU/mLStandard Error 13.5
Comparison: The p-value compares Lovastatin with the Placebo treatment group.p-value: 0.35ANCOVA
Secondary

Adjusted Mean Change From Baseline in Serum IgM Rheumatoid Factor by ELISA (ELISA: Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay)

Rheumatoid factor (RF) is an antibody often present in the blood of a person with rheumatoid arthritis. In this study, a positive value for RF was 0.5 IU/mL or greater; a negative value for RF was \<0.5 IU/mL. Change= Day 84 value minus Baseline value. In general, presence of the antibody indicates aggressive rheumatoid arthritis and higher risk of joint damage. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis.

Time frame: Baseline (Day 0), Day 84 (Wk 12)

Population: Intent-to-Treat with Available Data

ArmMeasureValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Lovastatin 80 mgAdjusted Mean Change From Baseline in Serum IgM Rheumatoid Factor by ELISA (ELISA: Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay)-5.4 IU/mLStandard Error 4
PlaceboAdjusted Mean Change From Baseline in Serum IgM Rheumatoid Factor by ELISA (ELISA: Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay)2.8 IU/mLStandard Error 4.5
Comparison: The p-value compares Lovastatin with the Placebo treatment group.p-value: 0.19ANCOVA
Secondary

Adjusted Mean Change From Baseline in the Disease Activity Score Using C-reactive Protein (DAS28-CRP) on Day 84

The DAS28-CRP score is on a scale of 0 to 10 and indicates current activity of rheumatoid arthritis (\>5.1=high disease activity; 3.2-\<=5.1=moderate disease activity; \<=3.2=low disease activity; \<2.6=remission). The score uses a combination of four variables: 1) the number of tender joints (of the 28 that are measured); 2) the number of swollen joints (of the 28 that are measured); 3) serum C-reactive protein (CRP) lab value in mg/L , and 4) Patient Global Assessment of Disease Activity. Using a formula, the physician determines the score. Participants with measurements for designated time points included in analysis.

Time frame: Baseline (Day 0) to Day 84 (Wk 12)

Population: Intent-to-Treat with Available Data

ArmMeasureValue (MEAN)Dispersion
Lovastatin 80 mgAdjusted Mean Change From Baseline in the Disease Activity Score Using C-reactive Protein (DAS28-CRP) on Day 84-0.5 Scores on a scaleStandard Error 0.2
PlaceboAdjusted Mean Change From Baseline in the Disease Activity Score Using C-reactive Protein (DAS28-CRP) on Day 84-0.5 Scores on a scaleStandard Error 0.2
Comparison: The p-value compares Lovastatin with the Placebo treatment group.p-value: 0.91ANCOVA
Secondary

Percentage of Participants Meeting ACR20 Response Criteria at Day 84 (ACR: American College of Rheumatology)

Patients were ACR20 Responders if they had: at least 20% improvement in both tender joint count (28 examined) and swollen joint count (28 examined), and 20% improvement in at least three of the following 5 remaining ACR core measures: • Patient's pain assessment (Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) 100 mm) • Patient's global assessment of disease activity (VAS 100 mm) • Physician's global assessment of disease activity (VAS 100 mm) • Patient self-assessed disability (Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ)) score • Acute phase reactant C-reactive protein. Participants with measurements for designated time points were included in analysis.

Time frame: Day 84 (Wk 12)

Population: Intent-to-Treat with Available Data

ArmMeasureValue (NUMBER)
Lovastatin 80 mgPercentage of Participants Meeting ACR20 Response Criteria at Day 84 (ACR: American College of Rheumatology)29.0 Percentage of participants
PlaceboPercentage of Participants Meeting ACR20 Response Criteria at Day 84 (ACR: American College of Rheumatology)40.0 Percentage of participants
Comparison: The p-value compares Lovastatin with the Placebo treatment group.p-value: 0.3995% CI: [-35.9, 14]Chi-squared

Source: ClinicalTrials.gov · Data processed: Feb 20, 2026