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Gemfibrozil is an FDA-approved fibric acid agent (fibrate) to manage hypertriglyceridemia (particularly in type IV and V hyperlipidemia). Diet and exercise constitute the first-line treatment for mild and moderate hypertriglyceridemia. However, patients with no adequate therapeutic response to dietary measurements will benefit from the initiation of this medication. Very high levels of triglycerides represent a risk factor for the development of acute pancreatitis. Gemfibrozil is a useful medication for the reduction of triglycerides in patients with very high triglycerides serum levels. This drug is also approved for decreasing the risk of developing coronary heart disease (Type IIb), particularly in patients without a history of subsisting coronary heart disease symptoms. This activity outlines the indications, contraindications, interactions, monitoring, and other therapeutic information pertinent to members of the interprofessional healthcare team caring for patients with hyperlipidemia (particularly hypertriglyceridemia) with gemfibrozil. Objectives: Identify the mechanism of action of gemfibrozil. Describe the adverse effects of gemfibrozil. Review the toxicity of gemfibrozil. Summarize interprofessional team strategies for improving care coordination and communication to advance gemfibrozil and improve outcomes. Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

Adverse drug reactions from overdose can include diarrhea, peripheral neuropathy, hyperkalemia, myopathy, renal failure, rhabdomyolysis, elevation in liver function tests, and opacities in the eye lens. The treatment is mainly supportive.[14][11] A case of overdose with 9 gm gemfibrozil is reported in a seven-year-old child followed by complete recovery.

Primary care providers, nurses, hospitalists, internists, cardiologists, and endocrinologists regularly prescribe this medication. Gemfibrozil helps manage hypertriglyceridemia and is comparatively effective and safe. It is essential to enhance healthcare providers' knowledge about this drug, including nurses and pharmacists. They must advise the patient that the medication can potentially produce dangerous side effects like diarrhea, peripheral neuropathy, hyperkalemia, myopathy, renal failure, rhabdomyolysis. Monitoring renal and liver parameters in patients using this drug is recommended to detect dangerous complications on time. Nursing will be on the front line monitoring for side effects, determining treatment efficiency, and reporting any concerns to the prescribing clinician. Pharmacists should verify the dose regimen, perform medication reconciliation, and report any concerns back to the prescriber. Gemfibrozil demands an interprofessional team strategy among physicians, specialists, physician assistants, specialty-trained nurses, and pharmacists, all cooperating beyond expectations to accomplish excellent patient outcomes and prevent complications.[11][14] [Level 5]