The effect of an antacid containing aluminum hydroxide on plasma cholesterol and lipoproteins

We conducted a preliminary study of the possible cholesterol-lowering effect of an antacid containing aluminum hydroxide. Twenty-three volunteers were divided into two groups and participated in a before-after clinical trial with four-week treatment and control periods. All volunteers chewed eight antacid tablets daily for one month. Blood determinations were made before antacid administration, at the conclusion of treatment, and a month after termination of treatment. In groups A and B cholesterol was reduced from 5.50 mmol/L to 5.05 mmol/L and from 5.25 mmol/L to 4.95 mmol/L, respectively (P = 0.035, total both groups). Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) was reduced from 4.00 mmol/L to 3.30 mmol/L and from 3.60 mmol/L to 3.4 mmol/L (P = 0.036 total of both groups). The above-mentioned parameters returned towards baseline levels a month after cessation of treatment. Other plasma lipid levels were not significantly changed. These preliminary results indicate that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may have a cholesterol-lowering effect. It is suggested that this effect is mediated by increased binding and fecal excretion of bile acids.