Cataracts by lipid lowering drugs? Three different HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors studied in hypercholesterolemic rabbits.

We evaluated the effects of a lipid-lowering drug therapy with simvastatin, lovastatin, and pravastatin on the crystalline lens of the hypercholesterolemic rabbit. A threefold therapeutic dose was administered. Ocular examinations in mydriasis prior to treatment and after 14 and 30 weeks, respectively, were performed, including photographic documentation. Some degree of congenital lens opacities prior to treatment was frequently observed. No development of new cataracts could be proved during the study period.