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Published on: November 10, 2017
Double-blind study on the activity of plafibride in the treatment of type IV hyperlipoproteinemia
Abstract:
The effects of a new drug, N-2-(p-chlorophenoxy)-isobutyryl-N'-morpholinomethylurea (plafibride, ITA 104), were studied in a double blind study lasting four months on a group of 30 patients with a type IV hyperlipoproteinemia. In the patients treated with the active drug significant reductions in blood triglycerides were obtained, with a trend to normal. Reduction in blood cholesterol was inconsistent and not significant. As for the lipoproteinogram, a tendency towards a decrease in the pre-beta-lipoprotein fraction was observed and so was a non-significant tendency towards an increase in the alpha- and beta-lipoprotein fractions. Studies on the platelet functioning showed an obvious decrease in platelet aggregation in those patients treated with the active drug. This was very evident for the ADP and adrenaline inductors and rather less significant for collagen. Neither platelet adhesiveness nor aggregation rate changed. Tolerance of the drug was generally excellent. In one patient a decrease in some palpebral xanthelasmas was observed after two months of treatment with the active drug. In only one case there was heartburn and this was corrected with alkalines. In one other case an urticarial rash appeared, but disappeared spontaneously when the drug was temporarily stopped and did not reappear when it was administered again. During the trial no evidence of renal, hepatic or hematological malfunctions were observed. However, a slight tendency towards an increase in the GOT, GPT and LDH was observed, which was not statistically significant. The drug tested may be very useful in the treatment of type IV hyperlipoproteinemia, especially in those forms in which an increase in thromboembolic risk is suspected, either associated with, or secondary to, the actual atherosclerotic disease.
Insights
Plafibride (ITA 104) effectively reduced triglycerides in type IV hyperlipoproteinemia patients, showing promise for managing associated thromboembolic risks. The drug demonstrated good tolerance and improved platelet function.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Lipid Metabolism
Background:
- Type IV hyperlipoproteinemia is characterized by elevated triglycerides and increased risk of atherosclerotic and thromboembolic diseases.
- Current treatments for hyperlipoproteinemia often have limitations or side effects.
- There is a need for effective therapeutic agents to manage lipid profiles and reduce cardiovascular risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of plafibride (ITA 104) in patients with type IV hyperlipoproteinemia.
- To assess the drug's impact on lipid levels, lipoprotein fractions, and platelet function.
- To determine the overall tolerability and potential adverse effects of plafibride.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, four-month study involving 30 patients diagnosed with type IV hyperlipoproteinemia.
- Patients were treated with either plafibride (ITA 104) or a placebo.
- Measurements included blood lipid levels (triglycerides, cholesterol), lipoproteinogram analysis, and platelet aggregation studies.
Main Results:
- Significant reductions in blood triglycerides were observed in the plafibride group, trending towards normal levels.
- Cholesterol reduction was inconsistent and not statistically significant.
- Plafibride demonstrated a notable decrease in platelet aggregation, particularly with ADP and adrenaline induction, suggesting reduced thrombotic risk.
- The drug was generally well-tolerated, with minor, transient side effects reported in a few patients. No significant renal, hepatic, or hematological abnormalities were detected.
Conclusions:
- Plafibride (ITA 104) is a potentially valuable therapeutic option for type IV hyperlipoproteinemia, especially in patients with suspected increased thromboembolic risk.
- The drug's ability to reduce triglycerides and inhibit platelet aggregation warrants further investigation for cardiovascular disease prevention.
- Plafibride exhibits a favorable safety profile, making it a promising candidate for long-term management of hyperlipoproteinemia.
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