Cardiovascular & Hematological Agents in Medicinal Chemistry · Apr 1, 2026

Combining Atorvastatin with Dietary Agents to Manage Dyslipidaemia and Drug-induced Adverse Events: A First Reflective Narrative Review of Current Findings and Potential Directions

By Mehta HS, Prabhakar P, Pais MLJ et al.

Hyperlipidemia-a metabolic disorder characterized by elevated levels of lipids such as cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood-is a growing global public health concern. It encompasses hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, mixed hyperlipidemia, and altered high-density lipoprotein levels, and is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD), stroke, and metabolic syndrome. Atorvastatin, an FDA-approved HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, is widely used to manage dyslipidemia and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Despite its effectiveness, atorvastatin is occasionally associated with adverse effects, including hepatic dysfunction, muscle-related symptoms, cognitive impairment, and insulin resistance. This has encouraged interest in adjunctive therapies using natural dietary components that may enhance lipid-lowering efficacy and mitigate side effects. This narrative review explores the emerging evidence on plant-based dietary supplements-such as green tea polyphenols, grape seed extract, Fructus schisandrae, isabgol, Phoenix dactylifera, plant sterols, polyphenol extracts, Salvia officinalis, Zingiber officinale (ginger), and legumes like horse gram and groundnut-and their synergistic potential when co-administered with atorvastatin. These natural agents exhibit a range of beneficial properties, including hypolipidemic, antioxidant, antiinflammatory, hepatoprotective, and cardioprotective effects. Studies demonstrate that combining atorvastatin with these dietary agents can enhance lipid profile improvement, reduce oxidative stress, and alleviate drug-induced organ toxicity. Notably, legumes such as horse gram and groundnut show promise in modulating lipid metabolism and inflammatory markers. Clinical trials are necessary to establish standardized doses, treatment durations, and safety profiles for wider human benefit.

doi.org/10.2174/0118715257437339260225060708PubMed 42299006Interventions