[Anti-atherogenic drugs].

Rupture of an instable plaque, characterized by a large lipid-rich central core, inflammatory cells, and a thin fibrous cap, causes sudden thrombus formation and acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Lipid lowering therapy by HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors leads to reduction of cardiovascular complications, but has very small effect on the degree of stenosis of ACS. Oxidizing metabolites generated at the site of coronary angioplasty can induce chain reactions that may lead to restenosis. Probucol improves the restenosis rate after coronary angioplasty if given before PTCA (percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty). These results will provide a better understanding of drug action, help explain certain drug interactions, and facilitate the choice of a drug for ACS.