Gemfibrozil detailed information

Overview
Gemfibrozil is the generic name for an oral drug used to lower lipid levels. It belongs to a group of drugs known as fibrates. 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. This increases synthesis of lipoprotein lipase therefore increasing clearance of triglycerides.

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 niacin, is better tolerated.

Contraindications and Precautions

 * Gemfibrozil should not be given to these patients:
 * Hepatic dysfunction
 * Renal dysfunction


 * Gemfibrozil should be used with caution in these higher risk categories:
 * Biliary tract disease
 * pregnant women
 * obese patients
 * 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.