Gemfibrozil is a fibric acid antilipemic agent similar to clofibrate.
Gemfibrozil possesses biologic actions distinct from those of clofibrate. Gemfibrozil effectively lowers serum triglycerides and also produces favorable changes in lipoproteins, but the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors are more effective in hyperlipoproteinemia. The Helsinki Heart Study, published in 1987, found gemfibrozil effective in reducing the risk of coronary heart disease in men. Gemfibrozil was approved by the FDA in 1981. Gemfibrozil has been shown to inhibit peripheral lipolysis and to decrease hepatic extraction of free fatty acids, which, in turn, decreases hepatic triglyceride production.