Phase II trial shows simvastatin slows progression of multiple sclerosis

Simvastatin, the active ingredient of Merck & Co’s (NYSE: MRK) now off patent cholesterol-lowerer Zocor, has been shown to slow brain volume loss and slow the progression of multiple sclerosis, according to the results of a UK Phase II trial published in The Lancet.

The double-blind randomized trial involved 140 people waged 18 to 65 with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis who took either 80mg of simvastatin or placebo. Those taking simvastatin showed a significant reduction in the rate of brain atrophy (brain shrinkage) over two years and better end-of study EDSS scores (a scale measuring disability levels) as well as better end-of study MSIS-29 scores (a scale used to measure the impact of MS on somebody’s day-to-day life).