Gemfibrozil

Gemfibrozil is the generic name for an oral drug used to lower lipid levels. It is most commonly sold as the brand name, Lopid. Other brand names include Jezil and Gen-Fibro.

Actions

  • Increases activity of Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPARα), a receptor which is involved in metabolism of carbohydrates and fats, as well as adipose tissue differentiation.

    • Therapeutic effects

  • Reduce triglyceride levels
  • Reduce Very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) levels
  • Modest reduction of Low density lipoprotein (LDL) levels
  • Moderate increase in High density lipoprotein (HDL) levels

    • Nontherapeutic effects and toxicities

  • GI distress
  • Musculoskeletal pain
  • Increased incidence of gallstones
  • Hypokalemia

    • Indications

  • Hyperlipidemia (Type III): Gemfibrozil is the drug of choice for therapy.
  • Hypertriglyceridemia (Type IV): Gemfibrozil, though not as effective as nicotinic acid, is better tolerated.

    • Contraindications and Precautions

  • Gemfibrozil should not be given to these patients:o Hepatic dysfunctiono Renal dysfunction
  • Gemfibrozil should be used with caution in these higher risk categories:o Biliary tract diseaseo pregnant womeno obese patientso Native Americans

    • Drug Interactions

  • Anticoagulants. Gemfibrozil potentiates the action of coumadin and indanedione anticoagulants.
  • Lovastatin. Risk of myopathy when gemfibrozil is given to patients receiving lovastatin.

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