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Gemfibrozil
Depletes
Prolonged use of Gemfibrozil can impact 2 essential nutrients.
CoQ10
Fibrates are a class of medications used to lower cholesterol and triglycerides. They work by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), which are transcription factors that regulate gene expression. Some studies have suggested that fibrates may interfere with the absorption of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a nutrient that is important for mitochondrial function. COQ10 supplementation should be considered to avoid a potential deficiency when taking this drug therapy.
Replace with Ubiquinol/Ubiquinone (50mg of each)
Research: Aberg F, Appelkvist EL, Broijersen A, et al. Gemfibrozil-induced decrease in serum ubiquinone and alpha- and...
B12
Research demonstrates that fibrates, particularly fenofibrate, are known to increase homocysteine levels. Elevated levels of homocysteine is associated with increased risk of a range of health problems including atherosclerosis, stroke, and neurological diseases, and vitamin Bs including vitamin B12 helps facilitate the breakdown of homocysteine and may be helpful in reducing homocysteine levels.
Replace with Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin) (100 mcg)
Research: Dierkes J, Westphal S, Kunstmann S, Banditt P, Lössner A, Luley C. Vitamin supplementation can markedly reduce the...
Health Impact
Gemfibrozil-induced nutrient depletion can lead to a range of health problems
Statin-Related Muscle Pain & Fatigue
Randomized trials and meta-analyses in statin-treated patients have shown that CoQ10 depletion and/or low circulating levels are associated with muscle symptoms, while supplementation has produced mixed but suggestive improvements in statin-associated myalgia and muscle pain severity.
Research: Caso G et al. Effect of coenzyme Q10 on myopathic symptoms in patients treated with statins. Am J Cardiol....
Low Mitochondrial Energy & Antioxidant Defense
Mechanistic and clinical studies link lower CoQ10 status with impaired oxidative phosphorylation and higher markers of oxidative stress, particularly in tissues with high metabolic demand such as myocardium and skeletal muscle.
Research: Littarru GP, Tiano L. Clinical aspects of coenzyme Q10: cardiology and beyond. Antioxid Redox Signal....
Side Effects
Common side effects of Gemfibrozil, some of which may be related to nutrient depletion
Review
Some common side effects of gemfibrozil may include:
- Upset stomach or stomach pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Rash or itching
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
It is important to contact your healthcare provider if you experience any severe or persistent side effects while taking gemfibrozil.
- Upset stomach or stomach pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Rash or itching
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
It is important to contact your healthcare provider if you experience any severe or persistent side effects while taking gemfibrozil.
Get Support
We've curated a list of vetted, recommended individual nutrient third-party supplements.
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COQ 10 (as Ubiquinone)
by Life Extension
The CoQ10 supplement by Life Extension is a high-quality dietary supplement designed to support cellular energy production and antioxidant protection, utilizing a bioavailable form of Coenzyme Q10.
Strength: 50 mg
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COQ 10 (as Ubiquinone)
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