Fibric acid derivatives
Fibric acid derivatives
Fibric acid derivatives or fibrates (gemfibrozil, ciprofibrate, and bezafibrate) belong to the group of triglyceride-lowering drugs that may be useful in lowering VLDL (and LDL), the so-called non-HDL goals. The mechanism of action of fibrates is very complex and not entirely understood. Their principal effect appears to be mediated through nuclear transcription factor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPAR-α)
Fibrates are generally well tolerated in most patients. GI complaints are the most common side effects. All drugs in this class appear to increase the likelihood of cholesterol gallstones. Additionally, the fibrates are highly bound to serum albumin and may displace warfarin, increasing its anticoagulant effects. Since fibrates are primarily excreted by the kidneys, caution should be observed in patients with renal failure. Myopathy has been observed particularly when combined with a statin.
Fibrates can cause all of the following EXCEPT
The combination of statins and fibrates tends to