Clofibrate-induced myopathy in the rat

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Toxicology
• Muscle Biology

Background:

• Chlorophenoxyisobutyrate (clofibrate) is a lipid-lowering agent.
• Understanding drug-induced myopathy is crucial for patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of clofibrate on rat skeletal muscle.
• To determine the dose-dependent and time-dependent myotoxic effects of clofibrate.

Main Methods:

• Rats received daily injections of clofibrate (0.2 or 0.5 g/kg) for 9 to 46 days.
• Lower leg muscles were examined using light and electron microscopy.

Main Results:

• High-dose clofibrate (0.5 g/kg) administered for 26-46 days induced significant myopathic changes.
• Microscopic examination revealed cellular alterations consistent with muscle damage.

Conclusions:

• Clofibrate, particularly at higher doses and prolonged durations, can cause myopathy in rats.
• These findings highlight the potential for clofibrate to induce muscle toxicity.