The Effect of Clofibrate on Glucose Tolerance, Insulin Secretion, Triglycerides and Fibrinogen in Patients with Coronary Heart Disease

Abstract

The effects of clofibrate treatment were monitored in a double-blind cross-over study conducted in 16 male patients with coronary heart disease. Most had latent diabetes mellitus with elevated and delayed insulin release after i.v. glucose administration. Blood glucose and insulin levels were measured during repeated i.v. glucose tolerance tests in each patient and serum triglyceride and plasma fibrinogen were estimated at intervals. Clofibrate treatment significantly lowered fasting blood glucose levels (P < 0.01) and improved the glucose tolerance (P < 0.01). Fasting plasma insulin levels and those at 30 min after glucose loading were reduced (P < 0.05). Serum triglycerides (P < 0.001) and plasma fibrinogen levels (P < 0.05) were lowered during the treatment period. The change in k-value (glucose utilization) did not correlate to changes in triglyceride or fibrinogen. The beneficial effect of clofibrate therapy on abnormal glucose tolerance was confirmed. Clofibrate may act by reducing peripheral insulin resistance.