Activates PPARα, increasing lipoprotein lipase activity and reducing hepatic VLDL production. Primarily lowers triglycerides (40–60%) with modest LDL reduction and HDL increase. Older fibrate — fenofibrate generally preferred.
At a glance
Class
Fibric Acid Derivative (Lipid-Lowering)
Storage
Store at room temperature below 25°C
Dosing
Used for severe hypertriglyceridemia in Miniature Schnauzers and other breeds
Feline hyperlipidemia is uncommon
Safety
Fasting lipid panel at 4–6 weeksHepatic enzymesCK (myopathy)
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Gemfibrozil?
Gemfibrozil is a fibric acid derivative (lipid-lowering) used in pets. Activates PPARα, increasing lipoprotein lipase activity and reducing hepatic VLDL production. Primarily lowers triglycerides (40–60%) with modest LDL reduction and HDL increase. Older fibrate — fenofibrate generally preferred.
›What is Gemfibrozil used for in pets?
Gemfibrozil is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for severe hypertriglyceridemia in Miniature Schnauzers and other breeds; Feline hyperlipidemia is uncommon.
›What is the Gemfibrozil dose for dogs?
For dogs, Gemfibrozil is typically dosed as follows — Used for severe hypertriglyceridemia in Miniature Schnauzers and other breeds: undefined undefined PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Gemfibrozil dose for cats?
For cats, Gemfibrozil is typically dosed as follows — Feline hyperlipidemia is uncommon: undefined undefined N/A N/A. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Gemfibrozil need a prescription?
Yes. Gemfibrozil is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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