Improved Lipid Lowering Activity of Bezafibrate Following Continuous Gastrointestinal Administration: Pharmacodynamic Rationale for Sustained Release Preparation of the Drug

Purpose. To evaluate the role of different routes and modes of administration of bezafibrate (BZF) on its hypolipidemic activity. We hypothesize that the major sites of BZF action are located presystemically as in other 'gastrointestinal (GI) drugs.' Thus, continuous administration of the drug to the GI tract is expected to augment its efficacy and provides a rationale for an oral sustained release preparation of the drug.