Comparative effects of gemfibrozil and clofibrate in type III hyperlipoproteinemia

Type III hyperlipoproteinemia (dysbetalipoproteinemia) is characterized by elevated concentrations of plasma cholesterol and triglycerides due to an increase in very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) remnant lipoproteins. In a retrospective analysis we observed that in 12 patients with this disorder, gemfibrozil reduced concentrations of total cholesterol, VLDL cholesterol and triglycerides by 48%, 72% and 68%, respectively. These changes were greater than those reported in a similar number of patients treated with clofibrate. Comparative data on the efficacy of different fibrates in this disorder are very limited; to assess this further we have compared the hypolipidemic effects of gemfibrozil (600 mg twice daily) and clofibrate (1 g twice daily) in six patients with well-characterized type III hyperlipoproteinemia. Baseline values were obtained after at least 8 weeks on diet and treatment values were obtained after 6 and 8 weeks of treatment with each drug. Treatment with clofibrate and gemfibrozil both resulted in significant reductions in the plasma concentrations of total cholesterol (40% and 54%), VLDL cholesterol (59% and 79%) and total triglycerides (48% and 70%), as well as a significant increase in HDL cholesterol (9% and 7%). Gemfibrozil was, however, significantly (P < 0.05) more effective in reducing plasma concentrations of total cholesterol, VLDL cholesterol and triglycerides than was clofibrate, in the same patients.