Purpose: The aim of this study was to ascertain the effect size of statins in modulating plasma uric acid concentrations.
Data sources: A search was undertaken of the MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Web of Science and Google Scholar electronic databases.
Study selection: Studies meeting the following criteria were included: (i) randomized controlled trials with either a parallel or crossover design; (ii) investigated the impact of statin therapy on plasma uric acid concentrations; and (iii) presentation of sufficient information on uric acid values at baseline and at the end of follow-up in each group, or presenting the net change.
Data synthesis: The present meta-analysis suggested a significant reduction in plasma uric acid levels following statin therapy; however, this does not seem to be a class effect as subgroup analysis revealed a significant reduction with atorvastatin and simvastatin only, and not with pravastatin and rosuvastatin.
Conclusions: Atorvastatin and simvastatin, but not the other statins, can reduce serum uric acid levels.