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Gemfibrozil treatment in patients with elevated lipoprotein a: a pilot study
A G Fereshetian1, M Davidson, H Haber
1Parke-Davis Pharmaceutical Research, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
Clinical Drug Investigation
|March 29, 2008
Summary
High-dose gemfibrozil did not significantly reduce lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] in this pilot study. However, it effectively lowered triglycerides and total cholesterol, warranting further research in coronary heart disease risk.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Elevated lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] is an independent risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD).
- Gemfibrozil is a lipid-lowering medication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of high-dose gemfibrozil (2400 mg/day) in patients with elevated Lp(a).
Main Methods:
- Pilot study with 11 patients having Lp(a) >/=45 mg/dl.
- 12-week treatment with gradually increasing gemfibrozil dosage up to 2400 mg/day.
- Assessed Lp(a), triglyceride, and total cholesterol levels.
Main Results:
- Eight patients completed the study; 3 achieved a 33% Lp(a) reduction (not statistically significant).
- Gemfibrozil significantly decreased plasma triglycerides (-62.5%) and total cholesterol (-12.4%).
- Adverse events were generally mild, with one withdrawal due to dyspepsia.
Conclusions:
- High-dose gemfibrozil did not significantly reduce Lp(a) in this pilot study.
- Gemfibrozil effectively lowered triglycerides and total cholesterol.
- Further randomized studies with larger patient numbers are warranted to confirm effectiveness.
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