Health
Study Identifies Medication to Help African-Americans Lower Cholesterol Levels
Source: NBN/CP RadioWire
Mar 9, 2005, 16:00

Results from a recent Omnibus survey show that two out of three people, nearly 65 percent, do not consider C-Reactive Protein (C-R-P) an important risk factor for heart disease.  C-R-P levels are generally higher in African Americans and new data from the Aries trial showed Crestor reduced C-R-P levels in this patient population.

This week at the American College of Cardiology�s annual meeting, new data from the Aries trial, the first-ever trial designed to evaluate the effects of cholesterol-lowering medications in African Americans, showed that Crestor reduced C-Reactive Protein or C-R-P in this patient population by more than 20 percent.  Doctor Keith C. Ferdinand clinical cardiologist and lead trial investigator:

�An increasing number of cardiologists believe that C-R-P may be an important, yet often ignored, diagnostic tool.  Through the Aries trial, we have important new information about the changes caused by Crestor on this critical biomarker in African Americans.�

C-Reactive Protein is a protein in the body who�s level increases when there is an inflammation of blood vessels.  Therefore, it is important to talk with your doctor and get your C-R-P levels checked.  .

Suggested anchor close: for more information on the Aries trial and about C-R-P, visit Crestor-dot-com, or call the Astrazeneca information center at 1-800-236-9933. 

Crestor� is a prescription medication for use along with diet in lowering high cholesterol.  In clinical studies, it was generally well tolerated.  The most common side effects are muscle pain, constipation, weakness, stomach pain and nausea.  These are usually mild and tend to go away.  Your doctor will do blood tests before and during treatment with Crestor to monitor your liver function.  Tell your doctor if you are taking any medications, including cyclosporine, warfarin, gemfibrozil or antacids.  Crestor is not right for everyone, including women who are nursing, pregnant, or who may become pregnant, or anyone with liver problems.  Unexplained muscle pain and weakness could be a sign of a rare but serious side effect and should be reported to your doctor right away.  Crestor has not been determined to prevent heart disease, heart attacks, or strokes.