Phenylenebis(oxy)bis[2,2-dimethylpentanoic acid]s: agents that elevate high-density lipoproteins.

A series of phenylenebis(oxy)bis[2,2-dimethylpentanoic acid]s have been synthesized and evaluated as potential hypolipidemic agents. Compound 18 (CI-924) was found to be the most potent compound in this series. In rats, compound 18 not only reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol but also increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Comparative studies in rats indicated 18 produced an equal elevation of HDL cholesterol at one-third of the dose required of gemfibrozil. Structure-activity relationships are discussed.