Changes in plasma lipoproteins in subjects treated with the bile acid-sequestering resin polidexide (Secholex)

The effects of a new anion-exchange resin, polidexide, 3-30 grams/day, on plasma lipids and lipoproteins have been studied in one normal subject and in three hyperlipidaemic patients. Plasma cholesterol concentrations were significantly reduced in all subjects over 80-120 days of therapy by amounts ranging from 14 to 20%. Plasma triglyceride concentrations increased in two patients with pre-existing hypertriglyceridaemia. Plasma apolipoprotein-B concentrations were reduced in all subjects. Cholesterol and apo-B concentrations in low density lipoproteins were reduced in all subjects, while triglyceride concentrations in very low density lipoproteins were increased in 3/4 subjects; Changes in high density lipoproteins were quite variable.