The effects of the
sulphonylureas can be enhanced by
clofibrate in some patients, and a reduction in the dosage of the
antidiabetics may be necessary. Hypoglycaemia has been reported with bezafibrate, ciprofibrate,
fenofibrate and
gemfibrozil in patients receiving
sulphonylureas. Gemfibrozil has both increased and decreased the dosage requirements of
insulin and various sulfonylurea
antidiabetics.
There would seem to be no good reason for avoiding the concurrent use of
sulphonylureas and fibrates, but be aware that the dosage of the antidiabetic may need adjustment. Patients should be warned that excessive hypoglycaemia occurs occasionally and unpredictably.