Gemfibrozil

Introduction: Gemfibrozil is a medicine used to treat high cholesterol and triglycerides. This medicine helps by lowering triglycerides and ''bad'' cholesterol (LDL), while at the same time raising the levels of ''good'' cholesterol (HDL). Lowering cholesterol levels reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke.

How it works: Gemfibrozil exhibits its action by inhibition of lipolysis and reduction of hepatic fatty acid uptake. It also inhibits secretion of VLDL from the liver.

Important Information: Take on an empty stomach (30 minutes before morning and evening meals). Do not stop without consulting your doctor. Regular lipid profile and liver function tests are recommended.

• Type IIa, IIb, III, IV and V hyperlipoproteinemia
• High triglycerides
• High cholesterol

Dyslipidaemic Agents

Fibric Acid Derivative

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. 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 reduces VLDL production in the liver and lowers triglyceride levels to control cholesterol.

Adult Dose:

• 1.2 gm daily in 2 divided doses (30 minutes before morning and evening meal)
• Dosage range: 0.9-1.5 gm daily

Children: Safety and efficacy not established

Renal Impairment (Mild to moderate): Use with caution

* Use as directed by the registered physician

Oral tablet. Take on empty stomach (30 minutes before meals). Swallow whole, do not chew or crush.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Common Side Effects:

• Abdominal and epigastric pain
• Dyspepsia
• Pruritus
• Rash
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Myalgia (rare)
• Increased liver enzymes
• Diarrhea
• Flatulence

Precautions:

• Avoid alcohol consumption.
• Regular liver function, blood counts and renal activity tests recommended.
• Inform doctor if you experience muscle pain, tenderness, cramps or weakness (especially with fever).
• Caution in patients with gallstones.

Contraindications:

• Alcoholism
• Hepatic impairment
• Gallstones
• Pregnancy and lactation
• Hypersensitivity to Gemfibrozil

Drug Interactions:

• Anticoagulants: Monitor prothrombin time (dose reduction may be needed)
• Lovastatin: Risk of severe myositis, rhabdomyolysis and acute renal failure

Food Interactions:

• Caution is advised when consuming alcohol. Please consult your doctor.

Use in Pregnancy: May be unsafe during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown harmful effects.

Use in Lactation: Probably unsafe during breastfeeding. Limited data suggests the drug may pass into breastmilk and harm the baby.

Pediatric Use: Safety and efficacy in children have not been established.

Geriatric Use: Use as per doctor's advice for elderly patients.

Renal Impairment: Use with caution in kidney disease. Not recommended in severe kidney disease.

Hepatic Impairment: Unsafe in liver disease and should be avoided.

Overdose: Overdose may cause gastrointestinal disturbances. Symptomatic treatment should be given.

Storage: Keep below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Gemfibrozil Tablet