Fibrate

Fibrates are a class of medication used to manage and treat dyslipidemia, a condition characterized by abnormal amounts of lipids in the blood. They are particularly effective in reducing triglyceride levels and increasing HDL cholesterol levels.

Mechanism of Action

Fibrates work by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), specifically PPARα. This activation leads to an increase in the synthesis and decrease in the degradation of apolipoprotein A-I and apolipoprotein A-II, major components of HDL cholesterol. It also results in a decrease in the production of very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), which reduces triglyceride levels.

Uses

Fibrates are primarily used to treat high triglyceride levels. They can also be used to increase HDL cholesterol levels in patients with low levels. In some cases, fibrates may be used in combination with statins to treat high LDL cholesterol levels.

Side Effects

Common side effects of fibrates include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. They can also cause myopathy, a disease of the muscle tissue, and gallstones. In rare cases, fibrates can lead to liver disease or pancreatitis.

Examples

Examples of fibrates include gemfibrozil, fenofibrate, and bezafibrate.

See Also

• Dyslipidemia
• Statins
• Cholesterol
• Triglycerides

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