Ciprofibrate

Ciprofibrate is a fibric acid derivative, a type of lipid-lowering agent that is used in the treatment of hyperlipidemia, a condition characterized by abnormally elevated levels of lipids or lipoproteins in the blood.

Etymology

The term "Ciprofibrate" is derived from the chemical name cis-5-[2-(4-chlorobenzoyl)-4-chlorophenyl]-2-isopropylvaleric acid. The prefix "Cipro-" is derived from the chemical compound cis-5-[2-(4-chlorobenzoyl)-4-chlorophenyl], while "-fibrate" is a common suffix for fibric acid derivatives.

Pharmacology

Ciprofibrate works by reducing the levels of triglycerides and increasing the levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol in the blood. It achieves this by activating the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), a receptor that regulates the expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism.

Clinical Use

Ciprofibrate is used in the treatment of hyperlipidemia, particularly in cases where other treatments such as diet and exercise have not been effective. It is also used in the treatment of familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic disorder characterized by high cholesterol levels.

Side Effects

Common side effects of ciprofibrate include gastrointestinal disturbances, skin rashes, and muscle pain. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects such as liver damage and pancreatitis.

Related Terms

• Fibric acid
• Hyperlipidemia
• Triglycerides
• High-density lipoprotein
• Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha
• Familial hypercholesterolemia

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