Effect of Bezafibrate on Serum Levels of Lipid and Insulin in NIDDM Patients Under Metabolic Control

Abstract

To test the effect of bezafibrate on glucose metabolism in NIDDM patients, 400mg per day of bezafibrate were administrated orally for up to six months to 57 hyperlipidemic patients with NIDDM, who were under metabolic control. Serum triglyceride and total cholesterol levels decreased by 40% and 8%, respectively, after the administration of bezafibrate, although the decrease in total cholesterol was not significant after six months. Serum HDL cholesterol was increased by 15%. The fasting serum insulin level was decreased significantly after three to six months, but hemoglobin Alc, blood glucose, and free fatty acids were not affected. These findings indicate an additional effect of bezafibrate in lowering serum lipids. They also indicate an inhibition of hepatic glucose production.