Effect of Clofibrate Administration on Plasma Post-heparin Lipolytic Activity in Man

Clofibrate treatment for 15-20 days (1500 mg/day) of diabetic patients with endogenous hypertriglyceridemia produced a significant increase in the plasma post-heparin lipolytic activity. Single administration of the drug (500 mg) did not affect the lipolytic activity though it resulted in an elevation of plasma clofibrate level similarly to the repeated administration for days. The relationship between changes of the lipolytic activity and plasma triglyceride concentration was not fully reciprocal in these patients. It is concluded that clofibrate increases plasma post-heparin lipolytic activity indirectly. However, it remains obscure whether the increase in the activity may have major role in the triglyceride lowering action of the drug.