Cholesterol Drug Boosts Wound Healing in Diabetic Mice, Kyoto Prefectural University Study

Applying a common cholesterol-lowering drug, Zocor (simvastatin), to the skin appears to speed wound healing in diabetic mice, a new study shows. The Japanese researchers said their findings might have significant implications for people with diabetes, who often develop serious complications, including amputation, because of delayed wound healing. They also pointed out that if the drug could be applied to the skin, and not taken by mouth, patients might be able to avoid possible side effects, such as kidney damage.