Uses

Gemfibrozil is indicated as adjunctive therapy to diet for the treatment of adult patients with very high serum triglyceride levels (Types IV and V hyperlipidemia) at risk of pancreatitis. It is also used to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease in patients with low HDL cholesterol and elevated LDL cholesterol who have not responded to other interventions.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in patients with hepatic or severe renal dysfunction, pre-existing gallbladder disease, hypersensitivity to gemfibrozil, and in combination with simvastatin, repaglinide, or dasabuvir.

Side effects

The most common adverse effects are gastrointestinal reactions including dyspepsia, abdominal pain, and nausea. Less frequent effects include myopathy, rhabdomyolysis (especially when combined with statins), and elevated liver enzymes.

Warnings

Concomitant use with statins, particularly simvastatin, significantly increases the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis. Liver function and blood counts should be monitored periodically. Use with caution in patients at risk for gallstone formation.

How it works

Gemfibrozil is a fibric acid derivative that lowers serum triglycerides and VLDL cholesterol while raising HDL cholesterol. It activates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-α), stimulating fatty acid oxidation and reducing hepatic triglyceride synthesis.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature. Protect from light and moisture.