Some observations on the relationships between atherosclerosis, hyperlipemia, and d-thyroxine

Abstract 1. 1. Clinical investigation was undertaken in 239 patients with tetraiodo- d -thyroxine. Exhaustive pharmacologic and toxicologic data are noted which tend to corroborate the results reported here in man. 2. 2. An average decline in serum cholesterol of 105 mg. per cent was induced by a dose of 8 mg. daily and maintained within 35 days. This lowered level was then maintained on a daily dosage of 4 mg. for 6 to 7 months. Untoward reactions never attained serious proportions (induced or heightened angina pectoris or extreme metabolic effect), and the over-all incidence of about 2.5 per cent is noteworthy. 3. 3. With strict reservations as to the etiological importance of hyperlipemia per se, but with an awareness of the role widely suggested for lipids in furthering an extant atherosclerosis, we have submitted these data for consideration.