Final answer:
Gemfibrozil is classified as a fibrate, which is used to lower VLDL synthesis and triglyceride levels. It operates differently from statins, which mainly target cholesterol levels. Fibrates are particularly beneficial for patients with high triglyceride levels but are cautiously combined with statins due to potential side effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gemfibrozil is a medication classified as a fibrate, not a statin or a nitrate. It is used to decrease triglyceride levels and to reduce the synthesis of very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) in the liver.
Unlike statins, which are inhibitors of HMG-CoA reductase and are primarily used to lower cholesterol, fibrates such as gemfibrozil work by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) which in turn lower VLDL levels and increase the catabolism of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins.
While treatment for hyperlipidemia often starts with dietary modifications, when drugs are needed, statins are typically the first line of defense. However, in cases of significantly elevated triglyceride levels, fibrates may be more beneficial. Though combining fibrates with statins can be effective in reducing cardiovascular risk, this combination can also increase the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis, and thus requires close medical supervision.