Etofibrate

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Etofibrate

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Etofibrate is a fibrate class medication primarily used to treat hyperlipidemia, which is an elevated level of lipids in the blood. It is a prodrug that is metabolized in the body to clofibric acid and nicotinic acid, both of which contribute to its lipid-lowering effects.

Mechanism of Action

Etofibrate works by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), which leads to an increase in the oxidation of fatty acids and a reduction in the production of triglycerides. This results in a decrease in very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and an increase in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels.

Indications

Etofibrate is indicated for the treatment of various types of hyperlipidemia, including:

• Hypercholesterolemia
• Hypertriglyceridemia
• Mixed dyslipidemia

Pharmacokinetics

After oral administration, etofibrate is hydrolyzed to its active metabolites, clofibric acid and nicotinic acid. These metabolites are then absorbed into the bloodstream and exert their lipid-lowering effects. The drug is primarily excreted through the kidneys.

Side Effects

Common side effects of etofibrate include:

• Gastrointestinal disturbances
• Myopathy
• Hepatotoxicity

Contraindications

Etofibrate is contraindicated in patients with:

• Severe liver disease
• Severe kidney disease
• Gallbladder disease
• Known hypersensitivity to fibrates

Drug Interactions

Etofibrate may interact with other medications, including:

• Anticoagulants: Increased risk of bleeding
• Statins: Increased risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis

See Also

• Fibrate
• Hyperlipidemia
• Clofibrate
• Nicotinic acid

References

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