Effects of Atorvastatin on Blood Pressure and Urinary Albumin Excretion

EFFECTS OF ATORVASTATIN ON BLOOD PRESSURE AND URINARY ALBUMIN EXCRETION IN PATIENTS WITH ESSENTIAL HYPERTENSION

To evaluate the possible effects of atorvastatin on ambulatory blood pressure, urinary albumin excretion, insulin resistance and arterial stiffness in hypertensive patients, beyond those on lipid profile. Glycemic parameters, "novel" cardiovascular risk factors and safety parameters will be also evaluated.

Inclusion Criteria:

• LDL-C>130 or >160 mg/dL (depending on the total risk according to the most recent recommendations25).
• no previous hypolipidemic medication
• ability to provide Informed Consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• pregnancy or lactation
• myocardial infarction or unstable angina within the past 6 months
• heart failure NYHA class III-IV
• renal disease (SCr>3 mg/dL or proteinuria>3g/d)
• liver disease
• history of malignancy
• history of drug or alcohol abuse
• treatment with corticosteroids
• any other condition with poor prognosis
• inability to provide Informed Consent.