PAQ is a neuroprotective agent. It protects dopaminergic neurons from cell death without inhibiting glial cell proliferation in a rat midbrain culture model of Parkinson's disease when used at a concentration of 10 μM. PAQ (25 or 50 mg/kg, twice per day) prevents loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease induced by MPTP.
Lapaquistat is a cholesterol biosynthesis inhibitor and is the active metabolite of TAK-475. Lapaquistat can reduce statin-induced myotoxicity in lipid-lowering therapy.