Gemfibrozil (Gemfibrozil)
Overview of Gemfibrozil
Gemfibrozil is antihyperlipidimic agent and reduces high levels of blood cholesterol. Gemfibrozil is the congener of the first generation fibric acid derivative clofibrate. It differs from clofibrate in its aliphatic chain and has two methyl groups rather than a chlorine atom on the phenoxy group.
Indication of Gemfibrozil
Gemfibrozil is primarily indicated in conditions like Coronary heart disease, Hyperlipidaemias of type IIa, IIb, III and IV in patients who have not responded adequately to diet., Hyperlipoproteinaemia.
Contraindication of Gemfibrozil
Gemfibrozil is contraindicated in conditions like Gall stones,Hepatic disease.
Side Effects of Gemfibrozil
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Gemfibrozil, which give rise to further complications include Myositic syndrome.,Gemfibrozil produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Arrhythmias, Hypokalemia, Hypokalemia. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Gemfibrozil therapy.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Gemfibrozil are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Headache, Nausea, Impotence, GI symptoms, Dermatitis, Gall stones.
Precautions of Gemfibrozil
Obtain periodic determination of serum lipid during administration of gemfibrozil. Withdraw the drug after 3 months if adequate response is not achieved. Perform periodic blood count during first 12 months of administration. Carefully monitor blood glucose level during therapy because it has a hyperglycemic effect. Avoid if creatinine clearance less than 30 ml/min.