Does Ezetimibe Interact with Gemfibrozil?
Ezetimibe and Gemfibrozil have a moderate drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. OATP1B1 substrate; gemfibrozil inhibition may increase ezetimibe exposure, requiring dosing reduction. The mechanism involves oatp1b1 transporter inhibition. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Moderate
- Ezetimibe Class
- Dietary Cholesterol Absorption Inhibitor
- Gemfibrozil Class
- Peroxisome Proliferator Receptor alpha Agonist
- Management
- Monitor for effects
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Ezetimibe and Gemfibrozil occurs because oatp1b1 transporter inhibition. Clinically, this means oatp1b1 substrate; gemfibrozil inhibition may increase ezetimibe exposure, requiring dosing reduction. This is classified as a moderate interaction. While it may not require stopping either medication, your healthcare provider should be aware you are taking both so they can monitor for potential effects and adjust treatment if necessary.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Ezetimibe and your doctor is considering prescribing Gemfibrozil (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider