The present study aims to investigate the effect of pioglitazone (30 mg/day) on endothelial function in premenopausal women with SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus). Patients with hypertension, endocrine, hepatic or renal diseases will not be included, or pregnant /breast feeding women. This is a randomized, double blind, placebo controlled study.
SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus) is characterized by accelerated atherosclerosis. The risk of suffering an acute myocardial infarction among premenopausal women with SLE is 50 times higher than control women of the same age. Insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia are frequent in SLE. Lipid metabolism in SLE, as in other insulin resistant states, is characterized by high triglycerides, low HDL-cholesterol, normal LDL cholesterol (or slightly increased) and an increase in LDL's susceptibility to oxidation. All these alterations can produce endothelial dysfunction which is present in SLE patients. Pioglitazone is a PPAR (peroxisome proliferator activated receptor) gamma agonist that can potentially improve insulin resistance, with a positive effect on the lipid profile (lowering of triglycerides, and a discrete increase in HDL-C) and improve endothelial function. Patients will be randomized to receive either placebo or pioglitazone 30 mg/day during a period of 12 weeks. Endothelial function will be assessed by Positron Emission Tomography (PET).
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
TRIPLE
Enrollment
30
30 mg tablet QD (taken once daily)
tablet taken once a day
improvement of endothelial function
Basal and final (12 weeks) endothelial function parameters measured by PET scan
Time frame: 12 weeks
change in HDL particle physicochemical characteristics
HDL particle size, distribution and composition evaluated at baseline and at 12 weeks
Time frame: 12 weeks
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.