Effect of Probucol and Atorvastatin Treatment on the Self-Care Ability of Acute Cerebral Infarction Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial Study.

BACKGROUND

To investigate the effect of probucol and atorvastatin on self-care ability in patients with acute cerebral infarction (ACI).

METHODS

Eighty-one patients with ACI admitted from November 2020 to May 2021 were divided into a combination treatment group (n = 40) and an atorvastatin group (n = 41). The atorvastatin group was given atorvastatin on the basis of conventional treatment, and the combination treatment group was treated with probucol and atorvastatin on the control basis. Self-care ability and blood lipid levels were assessed at baseline and 6 months after treatment using the Barthel Index (BI) and biochemical tests. The study also included MRI scans to evaluate infarct volume and monitored relevant clinical indicators.

RESULTS

The baseline data of both groups were consistent and comparable. After six months, both groups showed improved self-care ability, with the combined treatment group exhibiting a more significant improvement (P < 0.05). The combination treatment group also demonstrated a significant reduction in total cholesterol (TCH) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels compared to the atorvastatin group (P < 0.05). The factors influencing self-care ability included history of cerebrovascular disease, treatment modality, and LDL levels.

CONCLUSION

Probucol combined with atorvastatin significantly enhances self-care ability and improves blood lipid levels in patients with ACI. This combination therapy is safe, feasible, and recommended for clinical application to reduce cognitive decline and improve quality of life in these patients.

© 2025 The Author(s). Brain and Behavior published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.