[Clofibrate therapy--current status from a gerontological viewpoint]

Hyperlipoproteinemias are the most frequent metabolic disorders occurring in old age. Because of their capacity to initiate, increase, or accelerate the process of atherogenesis, it is necessary that such disturbances of metabolism be properly treated. One of the most effective drugs which is finding wide application in the medical treatment of hyperlipoproteinemia is clofibrate of which the active substance is clofibrinic acid (Regadrin). The results of an extensive long-time study of clofibrate by World Health Organization workers had led to a world wide discussion of the effects and side effects of this drug. The current state of clofibrate therapy can be summarized as follows: 1. Clofibrate affects above all the metabolism of triglycerides, but has also an effect upon that of cholesterol. 2. A number of epidemiological studies have shown that clofibrate is capable of reducing coronary morbidity and mortality. 3. Increased incidence of cholelithiasis can be among the side effects of clofibrate therapy. 4. Preferred indications of clofibrate therapy are hypertriglyceridemias in type IIb, type III, type IV, and type V hyperlipoproteinemia (in combination with other pharmaceuticals) and refractory hypercholesterolemias in type IIa and type IIb hyperlipoproteinemia.