Pentaerythritoltetranicotinate (Perycit®) in the Treatment of Hypercholesterolaemia

Abstract

For more than ten years we have tried to attack the problem of hypercholesterolaemia and hyperlipaemia using dietary treatment as well as various drugs. Nicotinic acid given per os has been shown to lower serum cholesterol. A rather high frequency of side effects has motivated trials of derivatives with less marked side effects. Pentaerythritoltetranicotinate is equal in effect to nicotinic acid, but produces fewer side effects. During treatment periods of up to six years no harmful influence was seen. A comparison of the three substances clofibrate, triiodo‐thyreopropionic acid, and pentaerythritoltetranicotinate indicates that clofibrate is effective in lowering cholesterol in most cases. No effect on peripheral circulation has been observed; and, at least during short periods, it does not combat angina pectoris. Triiodothyreopropionic acid is particularly effective in cases with a tendency to hypothyreodism. Its availability is reduced by a tendency to produce or increase angina pectoris. Pentaerythritoltetranicotinate Perycit® is equal in effect and better tolerated than nicotinic acid, but some patients may not tolerate it either. Perycit is always effective in lowering cholesterol; it increases the peripheral circulation and has a favourable effect on angina pectoris.