Gemfibrozil in hyperlipidaemia: an open, single blind trial.

The efficacy of Gemfibrozil on S. lipid levels was studied in 36 middle aged subjects with type IIA, IIB, IV hyperlipidemia. Gemfibrozil was well tolerated in the dose of 1200 mg/day and no dropouts were attributable to its use. An overall reduction in total cholesterol (39.91%), total triglycerides (71.10%), VLDL triglycerides (62.97%). LDL cholesterol (45.57%) and apolipoprotein B levels (26.83%) were observed at 24 weeks. At the same time HDL cholesterol, and apolipoprotein A levels showed increases by 26.23% and 53.67% respectively. It is concluded that Gemfibrozil is an effective lipid lowering agent. Further long term studies are necessary to determine its optimal dosage and its long term safety in Indian subjects.