Mechanisms of Action and Efficacy of Statins against Influenza

Abstract EN

The influenza virus (IV) is known to be a resistant virus with frequent mutations, causing severe respiratory diseases in the upper respiratory system.

Public health concerns about clinical efficacy of all conventional drugs are ambiguous; therefore, finding additional therapeutic agents is critical to prevent and control influenza outbreaks.

Influenza is associated with the induction of proinflammatory cytokines.

Scientists have reported that anti-inflammatory drugs, with pleiotropic effects, reduce the burden of severe influenza diseases.

Therefore, statins, which are cardioprotective drugs with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, may help patients suffering from influenza virus (IV).

This review delineates the potential use of statins as an alternative therapy in treating influenza related illness.