Calcium clofibrate

Calcium Clofibrate is a lipid-lowering agent that is used in the treatment of hyperlipoproteinemia (elevated levels of lipoproteins in the blood) and hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol). It is a type of fibrate, a class of drugs that lower levels of fats in the blood by reducing the production of triglycerides and increasing the uptake of cholesterol in the liver.

Mechanism of Action

Calcium Clofibrate works by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), specifically PPAR-alpha. These receptors play a crucial role in the regulation of lipid metabolism. When activated, PPAR-alpha stimulates the breakdown of fatty acids and reduces the production of triglycerides in the liver. This leads to a decrease in the levels of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), a type of lipoprotein that carries triglycerides, and an increase in the levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), which is often referred to as "good cholesterol".

Uses

Calcium Clofibrate is primarily used to treat conditions related to high levels of lipids in the blood. These include:

• Hyperlipoproteinemia: This condition is characterized by abnormally high levels of lipoproteins in the blood. It can lead to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition where fatty deposits build up in the arteries.
• Hypercholesterolemia: This is a condition characterized by high levels of cholesterol in the blood. It is a major risk factor for coronary artery disease.

Side Effects

Like all medications, Calcium Clofibrate can cause side effects. These may include nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, it can cause more serious side effects such as gallstones, liver disease, and pancreatitis.

See Also

• Fibrate
• Hyperlipoproteinemia
• Hypercholesterolemia
• Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors