Earlier this year, initial results from the study suggested that substantial reductions in LDL-C and increases in HDL-C using Crestor are associated with the regression of coronary atherosclerosis. These new data demonstrate that with intensive lipid therapy, in patients demonstrating substantial atheroma regression, enlargement of the lumen accompanied arterial remodeling. Further data provided shows the potential for high and low dose Crestor to have an impact on plaque composition.
“The results indicate that substantial regression of atherosclerosis may help improve diseased arteries in high risk patients,” said Dr Elisabeth Bjork, Crestor medical science director at AstraZeneca.
AstraZeneca commented that these new results add to the outstanding Crestor efficacy data. The company plans to submit Crestor for regulatory approval as a treatment for atherosclerosis in the first half of 2007.
Atherosclerosis occurs when there is a build-up of fatty deposits, to form areas called plaques, in the artery wall. The build-up of plaques causes the artery to narrow and this can reduce the blood supply to vital organs such as the heart and brain, resulting in angina or heart attacks.