Dr. Ogbru received his Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy in 1995. He completed a Pharmacy Practice Residency at the University of Arizona/University Medical Center in 1996. He was a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and a Regional Clerkship Coordinator for the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy from 1996-99.
Jay W. Marks, MD, is a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist. He graduated from Yale University School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine and gastroenterology at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Gemfibrozil is a blood lipid and
cholesterol-modifying medicine. It is classified as a fibric acid derivative
similar to fenofibrate (Tricor). It reduces triglycerides and increases
cholesterol carried in high density lipoprotein (HDL) in the blood. HDL
cholesterol is sometimes called "good" cholesterol because higher concentrations
of HDL cholesterol in the blood are associated with a reduced risk of heart
disease. Gemfibrozil modestly reduces low density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad")
cholesterol. The mechanism of action of gemfibrozil is not known. The decrease
in triglycerides is thought to be due in part to reduced production of
triglycerides by the liver. Lopid was approved in September 1993.
PRESCRIPTION: Yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 600 mg
STORAGE: Tablets should be stored at room temperature between 20 – 25 C (68
– 77 F).
PRESCRIBED FOR: Gemfibrozil is used for reducing elevated triglyceride levels
that are high enough to cause pancreatitis. Because gemfibrozil raises HDL and
decreases triglycerides it is prescribed for preventing coronary heart disease
in individuals without a history or symptoms of coronary heart disease who have
low HDL, high LDL and high triglycerides. Gemfibrozil is prescribed after other
therapies have failed, and it is not intended for treating patients who only
have low HDL. Gemfibrozil is used together with
diet and exercise.
DOSING: The recommended dose of gemfibrozil is 600 mg 30 minutes before
breakfast and dinner.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Gemfibrozil, when used together with the statin family of
cholesterol-reducing medications, for example, lovastatin (Mevacor), pravastatin
(Pravachol), simvastatin (Zocor), fluvastatin (Lescol), rosuvastatin (Crestor),
and atorvastatin (Lipitor) increases the risk of a condition called
rhabdomyolysis (muscle injury) which when severe can lead to kidney damage and
seven death. Rhabdomyolysis may occur as early as three weeks or several months
after starting combination therapy. The benefit of combining gemfibrozil with
statins does not outweigh the risk of rhabdomyolysis.
Gemfibrozil can increase the effect of warfarin (Coumadin) and thus may lead
to bleeding. Therefore, patients on warfarin may need to have their doses of
warfarin reduced when starting gemfibrozil.
Gemfibrozil increases blood levels of repaglinide (Prandin) in
people with diabetes,
increasing the likelihood of developing low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). This
combination should be avoided.
Colestipol (Colestid) and cholestyramine (Questran) reduce the absorption of
gemfibrozil and reduce its effectiveness if taken at the same time. Therefore,
gemfibrozil should be administered one hour before or 4-6 hours after
administering colestipol or cholestyramine.
PREGNANCY: The effect of gemfibrozil in pregnant women has not been
well-studied. Gemfibrozil should be used during
pregnancy only if the potential
benefit justifies the unknown but potential risk to the fetus.
Cholesterol is naturally produced by the body, and is a building block for cell membranes and hormones. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is the "bad" cholesterol, conversely, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is the "good" cholesterol. High cholesterol treatment includes lifestyle changes (diet and exercise), and medications such as statins, bile acid resins, and fibric acid derivatives.
Cholesterol is the most common type of steroid in the body. The treatment of elevated cholesterol involves not only diet but also weight loss, regular exercise, and medications. By understanding your cholesterol profile you can better manage your cholesterol levels.
Heart attacks are the major causes of unexpected, sudden death among men and women. A heart attack is also a significant cause of heart failure. Learn the risk factors for heart attack such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and other heart conditions. Lowering your risk factor, lifestyle changes, and in some cases medication are the most effective way of preventing a heart attack.
Cholesterol occurs naturally in the body. High blood cholesterol levels increase a person's risk of developing heart disease, heart attacks, strokes, TIAs, and more. In addition to medication (fibrates, statins, bile acid sequestrants, and niacin), lifestyle changes can be made to lower blood cholesterol levels
High cholesterol is also referred to as hypercholesterolemia (hyper=high +
cholesterol + emia = in the blood) or hyperlipidemia
Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is an important part of the outer
lining of cells in the body of animals.
Cholesterol is also found in the blood circulation of humans.
Cholesterol in the blood originates from dietary intake and liver
production.
Dietary cholesterol comes primarily from animal sources including meat,
poultry, fish, and dairy products.
Organ meats such as liver, are especially high in cholesterol content.
LDL (low density lipoprotein) cholesterol is called "bad" cholesterol,
because elevated levels of LDL cholesterol are associated with an increased risk
of coronary heart disease.
HDL (high density lipoprotein) cholesterol is called the "good cholesterol"
because HDL cholesterol particles pre...
Cholesterol RSS
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