Fibrates
Fibrates
Fibrates (pronounced: /ˈfaɪ.breɪts/) are a class of lipid-lowering drugs that are used primarily to reduce levels of triglycerides in the body. They can also increase levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), often referred to as "good cholesterol".
Etymology
The term "fibrate" is derived from the chemical structure of these drugs, which are fibric acid derivatives. The suffix "-ate" is used to denote a salt or ester of an acid.
Mechanism of Action
Fibrates work by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), specifically PPAR-alpha. This activation leads to an increase in the synthesis and decrease in the degradation of apolipoprotein A-I and apolipoprotein A-II, the main proteins of HDL.
Types of Fibrates
There are several types of fibrates available, including:
Each of these drugs has a slightly different chemical structure, but they all work in a similar way to lower triglyceride levels and increase HDL levels.
Side Effects
Like all drugs, fibrates can cause side effects. These may include:
It's important to note that not everyone who takes fibrates will experience these side effects.
Related Terms
- Lipid-lowering drugs
- Triglycerides
- High-density lipoprotein
- Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors
- Apolipoprotein A-I
- Apolipoprotein A-II
- Gemfibrozil
- Fenofibrate
- Bezafibrate
- Ciprofibrate
- Gastrointestinal distress
- Muscle pain
- Liver damage
- Gallstones
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Fibrates
- Wikipedia's article - Fibrates
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