Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Study
Nitric Oxide Metabolism in a Statin-treated Pediatric Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Protocol ID
Protocol Description
This is a substudy for individuals who are participating in the Atherosclerosis Prevention in Pediatric Lupus Erythematosus (APPLE) Study. The APPLE study will test whether or not a drug called atorvastatin (also known as Lipitor) will work better than a placebo (something that looks like the study drug but has no effect on the body) at slowing the process of atherosclerosis (hardening of the blood vessels) in children and adolescents with SLE.
This study - the Nitric Oxide study - will look at the effect of atorvastatin on nitric oxide production in the body. Nitric oxide is a chemical normally found in the body. The amount of nitric oxide in the body is important because too much nitric oxide may cause atherosclerosis. SLE patients produce too much nitric oxide and are at high risk for developing atherosclerosis.
By doing this study, we hope to find out if atorvastatin will affect the amount of nitric oxide produced by patients who have SLE.
Eligibility Criteria
Children and adolescents who are participating in the Atherosclerosis Prevention in Pediatric Lupus Erythematosus (APPLE)
Primary Investigator(s)
- Anne Eberhard, MD