Probucol: pharmacology and clinical application

Abstract

Increased levels of cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and VLDL-cholesterol are known risk factors for the development of atherosclerotic vascular disease. Probucol is an orally active agent that can reduce total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol. The drug also reduces HDL-cholesterol. However, it may modify the lipoprotein in such a way that removal of cholesterol from peripheral tissues is still enhanced. Probucol also has antioxidant activity, which may inhibit the oxidative modification of LDL that contributes to lipid deposition in blood vessel walls. Probucol is a well tolerated agent. However, its ability to prolong life in human subjects still needs to be determined.