Final answer:
Gemfibrozil increases the risk of gallstones by causing excess cholesterol production in the liver, which can precipitate and form gallstones when not fully metabolized and excreted.
Step-by-step explanation:
Why does Gemfibrozil increase the risk of gallstones? The use of Gemfibrozil, a fibrate medication, can lead to an increase in the production of cholesterol in the liver. This excess cholesterol may not be fully metabolized by the body and is consequently transported to the gallbladder. Normally, cholesterol stays in solution in the gallbladder and is secreted into the intestine as a component of bile for elimination. However, when there is an excess, the cholesterol can precipitate, forming gallstones. These solid particles comprised mainly of cholesterol can become problematic if they grow too large to pass through the bile duct and enter the duodenum for excretion. Large gallstones may get stuck, causing pain and potential complications like jaundice, which manifests as a yellowing of the skin and eyes.