Fibril

Indications

Gemfibrozil is used to lower high blood triglycerides (a type of blood fat), especially when they are very high and raise the risk of pancreatitis. It may also be used to raise HDL (good) cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease in selected patients who cannot take or do not respond to other treatments. It is used together with a low fat diet, exercise and weight control.

How It Works

Gemfibrozil belongs to the fibrate group. It activates a control protein in the liver called PPAR alpha. This increases the breakdown of fats, reduces the liver's production of triglyceride rich particles and increases HDL cholesterol.

Dosage and Administration

Adults: usually 600 mg twice a day, taken 30 minutes before breakfast and the evening meal. Some patients take 900 mg to 1200 mg daily as directed by the doctor. Blood fat levels are checked after a few months; if there is no clear benefit after 3 months, the doctor may stop it.

Interactions

• Do not take with Simvastatin, Repaglinide or Dasabuvir; serious muscle damage or very low blood sugar can occur.
• Other statins increase the risk of muscle damage and are usually avoided with it.
• It strongly increases the effect of Warfarin and similar blood thinners; the dose needs adjusting.
• It may increase the effect of some diabetes medicines such as Pioglitazone and sulfonylureas.
• Colestipol and similar resins should be taken at least 2 hours apart.

Contraindications

• Allergy to Gemfibrozil.
• Severe liver disease or primary biliary cirrhosis.
• Severe kidney disease.
• Gallbladder disease or gallstones.
• Use with Simvastatin, Repaglinide or Dasabuvir.

Side Effects

Common effects include indigestion, stomach pain, diarrhoea, nausea, wind, tiredness, headache and skin rash. It may raise the risk of gallstones.

Get urgent medical help if you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness (especially with fever or dark urine), severe pain in the upper right abdomen, yellow skin or eyes, or swelling of the face or throat or trouble breathing.

Pregnancy and Lactation

It is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless the doctor decides the benefit is greater than the risk.

Precautions and Warnings

• Blood counts, liver tests and kidney function may be checked during treatment.
• Tell your doctor about all medicines, especially cholesterol and diabetes medicines and blood thinners.
• Keep to the diet and exercise plan.

Overdose

Overdose may cause stomach cramps, diarrhoea, joint and muscle pain, nausea and vomiting. Seek medical help.

Therapeutic Class

Lipid lowering agent (fibrate).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.