Name the category.
Lipid-regulating drugs.
Name the main drug.
Bezafibrate
Describe the mechanism of action.
activation of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR–α) → ↑ lipoprotein lipase activity → more rapid degradation of LDL and triglycerides and induction of HDL synthesis → ↓ LDL, ↑ HDL, ↓↓↓ triglyceride
Name an indication.
second-line drug of choice in hyperlipidemia, most effective for lowering triglycerides
List adverse effects.
Dyspepsia
Myopathy, especially in combination with statins
Cholelithiasis: fibrates inhibit cholesterol 7α hydroxylase → decreased bile acid synthesis → supersaturation of bile with cholesterol (↑ cholesterol:bile acid ratio)
↑ LFTs (reversible)
Mild decrease in hemoglobin, hematocrit, and WBC upon initiation; normally stabilizes with long-term therapy
List contraindications.
Renal insufficiency
Liver failure
Gall bladder diseases
Name interactions.
enhance the effect of other drugs (e.g., sulfonylureas, warfarin) by inhibiting hepatic CYP450
Last changed2 years ago