abstract |
Novel phytosterol and/or phytostanol derivatives, including salts thereof, are represented by general formulae (I), (II), (III) wherein R is a phytosterol or phytostanol moiety, R2 is derived from lipoic acid and R3 is hydrogen or any metal, alkali earth metal, or alkali metal. These derivatives are effective in treating and preventing cardiovascular disease and its underlying conditions including atherosclerosis and hyperlipidemia. |