Composition and method for reducing serum cholesterol levels

Abstract

A composition and method for reducing serum cholesterol in humans and animals is provided. The method comprises administering phytosterol and policosanol which together produce a synergistic effect in lowering serum cholesterol levels. Preferably the administered composition includes about 3.2:1 parts by weight of phytosterol and policosanol.

I claim:  
     
         1 . A composition for reducing serum cholesterol levels in humans and animals, said composition comprising: from about 5% to about 75% by weight of phytosterol, from about 1% to about 60% by weight of policosanol, and from 0% to about 65% by weight of pharmaceutically acceptable formulation aids.  
     
     
         2 . The composition of    claim 1   , wherein the composition comprises from about 10% to about 60% by weight of phytosterol, and from about 3% to about 46% by weight of policosanol.  
     
     
         3 . The composition of    claim 1   , wherein the composition comprises about 3.2:1 parts by weight of phytosterol and policosanol.  
     
     
         4 . The composition of    claim 1   , wherein the formulation aids comprise diluents, stabilizers, binders, buffers, lubricants, coating agents, preservatives, emulsifiers, and suspension agents.  
     
     
         5 . A method for reducing serum cholesterol levels in humans and animals by administering to at least one of a human and an animal from about 5% to about 75% by weight of phytosterol, from about 1% to about 60% by weight of policosanol, and from 0% to about 65% by weight of pharmaceutically acceptable formulation aids.  
     
     
         6 . The method of    claim 5   , further comprising administering a mixture including from about 10% to about 60% by weight of phytosterol, and from about 3% to about 46% by weight of policosanol.  
     
     
         7 . The method of    claim 5   , further comprising administering about 3.2:1 parts by weight of phytosterol and policosanol.  
     
     
         8 . The method of    claim 5   , further comprising administering formulation aids selected from the group including diluents, stabilizers, binders, buffers, lubricants, coating agents, preservatives, emulsifiers and suspension agents.