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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
PubMed

Insights

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.
Abstract

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