Question

Which of the following is a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-\(\alpha\)) agonist:

• A. Ezetimibe
• B. Niacin
• C. Colesevelam
• D. Gemfibrozil

Hint:

Fibrates like Gemfibrozil and Fenofibrate are PPAR-\(\alpha\) agonists used to lower triglycerides and increase HDL levels in dyslipidemia patients.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding PPAR-\(\alpha\) agonists. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-\(\alpha\)) is a nuclear receptor that regulates lipid metabolism. PPAR-\(\alpha\) agonists, also known as fibrates, are used to lower triglyceride levels and increase HDL cholesterol in patients with dyslipidemia. 

Step 2: Role of Gemfibrozil as a PPAR-\(\alpha\) agonist. Gemfibrozil is a fibrate class drug that activates PPAR-\(\alpha\), leading to: 
- Increased fatty acid oxidation. 
- Decreased triglyceride levels. 
- Increased HDL cholesterol levels. 

Step 3: Why other options are incorrect. - (A) Ezetimibe: Inhibits intestinal cholesterol absorption by blocking NPC1L1, not a PPAR-\(\alpha\) agonist. 
- (B) Niacin: Reduces triglycerides and LDL by inhibiting lipolysis but does not act on PPAR-\(\alpha\). 
- (C) Colesevelam: A bile acid sequestrant that lowers LDL cholesterol, unrelated to PPAR-\(\alpha\) activation.