Some lipid lowering drugs (resins, nicotinic acid, fibrates) have been shown to increase plasma homocysteine concentrations. Studies with simvastatin or atorvastatin indicate that statins do not affect plasma homocysteine levels or even (in higher doses) total plasma homocysteine decre- ase. In our study we investigated the influence of pravastatin on plasma total homocysteine levels. We recruited 50 patients suffering from primary hypercholesterolemia for pravastatin 20 mg treatment and 25 patients with primary hypercholesterolemia acted as controls. Plasma total homocysteine levels, serum folate, vitamins B6 , B12 and lipid parameters were measured at baseli- ne, after 2, 5 and 8 months. Pravastatin reduced significantly plasma total homocysteine levels already after 2 months’ treatment. After 8 months the decrease (by 12.3 %) did not intensify. Homocysteine levels in the control group remained unaltered. There were no differences in vitamin levels. The cause is unknown presently, a possible role plays an improvement of endothelial function.

        Key words: Homocysteine - Lipid lowering drugs - Statins - Pravastatin