CLOFIBRATE (kloe-fy'brate) Atromid-S, Claripex , Novofibrate Classifications: cardiovascular drug; antilipemic; fibrate Prototype: Fenofibrate Pregnancy Category: C
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500 mg capsules
Structurally related to gemfibrozil. Reduces very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) to a greater extent than it reduces low
density lipoproteins (LDL). Mechanism of action is unclear; it appears to inhibit cholesterol biosynthesis prior to transfer
of triglycerides from liver to serum. Interferes with binding of free fatty acids to albumin and increases fecal excretion
of neutral sterols. It affects the mobilization of cholesterol from tissue. Reduces platelet adhesiveness and increases release
of ADH from posterior pituitary.
Reduces very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) to a greater extent than it reduces low density lipoproteins (LDL).
Adjunct for treatment of severe primary (type III) hyperlipidemia.
Management of diabetes insipidus.
Impaired renal or hepatic function, primary biliary cirrhosis; pregnancy (category C), lactation. Safe use in children <14
y not established.
History of jaundice or hepatic disease; gallstones; peptic ulcer; hypothyroidism; cardiovascular disease.
Hyperlipidemia Adult: PO 2 g/d in 24 divided doses
Diabetes Insipidus Adult: PO 1.52 g/d in 24 divided doses
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Oral
- If gastric distress is a problem, administer drug with meals.
- Preserve in closed, light-resistant containers at 15°30° C (59°86° F) unless otherwise directed.
CV: Increase or decrease in angina, CHF, arrhythmias. GI:
Nausea, vomiting, loose stools, diarrhea, flatulence, abdominal distress, gastritis, stomatitis, cholelithiasis. Hematologic: Neutropenia, leukopenia, anemia, eosinophilia, agranulocytosis, potentiation of anticoagulant effect. Metabolic: Elevated AST and ALT. Musculoskeletal: Flu-like symptoms. CNS: Drowsiness, dizziness, headache. Skin: Swelling and phlebitis at xanthoma sites, skin rash, allergy, urticaria, pruritus. Urogenital: Renal insufficiency, impotence, decreased libido.
Clofibrate therapy may lead to increased BSP retention, thymol turbidity; increased serum creatine phosphokinase (CPK);
proteinuria, parodoxical increase in LDL or cholesterol levels (if there is a large decrease in VLDL level). Lower fasting blood glucose and serum insulin levels in patients with diabetes mellitus.
Drug:
oral anticoagulants increase hypoprothrombinemia and increase risk of bleeding; probenecid increases effects of clofibrate; sulfonylureas increase hypoglycemic effects.
Absorption: Readily absorbed from GI tract. Peak: 46 h. Distribution: Distributed to extracellular space; crosses placenta; distribution into breast milk unknown. Metabolism: Hydrolyzed in plasma to clofibric acid, which is further metabolized in liver. Elimination: Excreted in urine. Half-Life: 1235 h.
Assessment & Drug Effects
- Lab tests: Baseline and periodic lipid profile; periodic liver function tests, CBC, renal function tests, and determinations
of plasma and urine steroid levels, serum electrolyte levels, and blood glucose.
- Therapeutic response generally occurs during the first or second month of therapy. Rebound may occur in second or third month,
followed by a further decrease, and may also occur with sudden withdrawal of drug.
- Clofibrate therapy for increased serum cholesterol and triglycerides is generally withdrawn after 3 mo if the response is
not adequate.
Patient & Family Education
- Report flu-like symptoms (malaise, muscle soreness, aching, weakness) promptly to physician. Other reportable conditions include
leukopenia, pulmonary edema, and renal insufficiency (see Appendix F) and gastric pain, nausea, and vomiting.
- Women of childbearing years should be on birth control regimen. If pregnancy is desired, clofibrate therapy should be discontinued
at least 2 mo before conception.
- Do not self-dose with OTC drugs without the approval of physician.
- Do not breast feed while taking this drug.