Protective effects of ileal bypass versus administration of clofibrate on experimental hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis in monkeys.

This study was designed to compare the ability of distal intestinal bypass versus clofibrate administration to prevent the development of atherosclerosis and hypercholesterolemia in monkeys on a standardized atherogenic regimen. Three groups of monkeys were studied: one group was submitted to intestinal bypass, one group was fed clofibrate, and one group served as dietary controls. Serum cholesterol levels and group served as dietary controls. Serum cholesterol levels and gross atheromatous lesions were studied. Clofibrate offered moderate protection against experimental hypercholesteroiemia and atherosclerosis, but in animals with surgical bypass of the distal one third of the small intestine, the protection appeared to be more complete.