It is recommended in the treatment of hyperlipidemia.
Fibric Acid Derivative; Hypolipidaemic
Gemfibrozil is an anti-lipemic agent. Gemfibrozil decreases serum triglycerides in healthy individuals and patients with hyper-triglyceridemia. It decreases very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL)- triglyceride concentration and to a lesser extent, LDL triglyceride concentration. HDL-triglyceride is usually decreased slightly. Gemfibrozil usually increases the HDL-cholesterol fraction in healthy individuals and patients with hyperlipoproteinemia, an action that may be beneficial in slowing the progression of atherosclerosis and in reducing the risk of coronary heart disease.
Gemfibrozil also inhibits synthesis of VLDL carrier apolipoprotein B, leading to a decrease in VLDL production. How gemfibrozil raises HDL concentration is not known. Gemfibrozil inhibits lipolysis of fat in adipose tissue and decreases the hepatic uptake of plasma free fatty acids, thereby reducing hepatic triglyceride production.
Gemfibrozil is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak concentration in plasma occurs within 1 to 2 hours; the half-life is about 1.5 hours. About 70% of a dose is excreted in the urine; little is excreted in the faeces.
1.2 g daily in 2 divided doses may vary between 0.9-1.5 g daily or as directed by the physician.
Concomitant anticoagulant dosage may need to be reduced and frequent determinations of prothrombin carried out to confirm that the desired prothrombin level has been re-established. There have been reports of severe myositis with marked elevation of creatinine kinase and myoglobinuria when Gelicon and lovastatin were used concomitantly. In most subjects who have had an unsatisfactory lipid response to either drug alone, the possible benefit of combined therapy with lovastatin and Gelicon does not outweigh the risks of severe myopathy, rhabdomyolysis and acute renal failure.
Alcoholism, hepatic impairment, gallstone, & pregnancy & to patients hypersensitive to Gemfibrozil.
Abdominal pain & epigastric pain or dyspepsia, pruritus, rash, headache, dizziness, blurred vision, painful extremities & rarely myalgia
Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks. This drug should not be used while breastfeeding due to concern over disruption of infant lipid metabolism and the potential for tumorigenicity.
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.
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