Giabri

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Giabri

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Giabri

Property Description
Active ingredient Ciprofibrate (INN)
Form Oral Tablet (Single-agent product)
Pharmacological class Fibrate (Lipid-modifying agent)
Common use Correcting dyslipidemia (imbalance of blood fats)
Origin Synthetic organic compound

Giabri is the trade name for a medication whose active pharmaceutical ingredient is Ciprofibrate (INN), a synthetic organic compound. Ciprofibrate is classified pharmacologically as a fibrate, placing it within the broader group of lipid-modifying agents. It is provided as an oral tablet and functions as a monotherapy, meaning it contains only this single therapeutic compound. Giabri is typically available as a prescription-only (Rx) medicine, indicating its use requires professional oversight.

What Type of Medicine is Giabri?

Giabri belongs to the fibrate class, one of the established pharmacological groups utilized for regulating abnormal fat levels in the blood, a condition known as dyslipidemia. The fibrate class is utilized for its role in improving the overall lipid profile. Fibrates are used in the management of patients who have severe hypertriglyceridemia (very high levels of triglycerides) or for those who cannot tolerate other primary lipid-lowering drugs. This highlights that the medicine has a defined and specialized role in managing specific types of fat imbalances.

What is the General Purpose of This Lipid Regulator?

Its general purpose is to correct imbalances in the blood lipid profile. Ciprofibrate's high-level action focuses on regulating gene expression that controls fat metabolism, influencing how the body produces and processes lipids. This regulatory activity leads to a reduction in plasma triglycerides and facilitates an increase in circulating HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol). The drug works to improve the composition of fats circulating in the bloodstream, serving as a tool in the long-term management of dyslipidemia.

What side effects are possible with Giabri?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Official regulatory documents classify the potential effects of Giabri (Ciprofibrate) by frequency and the body system affected. Common effects are those that may affect up to 1 in 10 people, and these often appear early in treatment but tend to become less frequent with continued use.

Key adverse reactions are grouped by System-Organ Class (SOC) in regulatory safety summaries:

  • Gastrointestinal and Nervous System Disorders: Commonly listed effects include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and dyspepsia.
  • Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders: Muscle pain (myalgia) is a common effect. Serious, less frequent effects documented include myopathy, myositis, and Rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle breakdown) [SmPC]. The risk of these serious muscle events may be increased when Giabri is used with HMG CoA reductase inhibitors (statins).
  • Hepatobiliary Disorders: Abnormal liver function tests are documented. More serious, though less frequent, effects include cholestasis, cytolysis, jaundice, and the formation of gallstones (cholelithiasis).

Serious Adverse Reactions and Regulatory Constraints

The most clinically significant adverse events documented in official labels include Rhabdomyolysis and the potential for serious hepatobiliary events, as well as Pancreatitis and rare cases of Pneumonitis or Pulmonary fibrosis.

The regulatory profile places specific limitations on use, defining certain conditions as contraindications (prohibiting use). Giabri should not be used in individuals with severe renal impairment, severe hepatic impairment, or during pregnancy and lactation. Specific patient factors, such as untreated hypothyroidism or advanced age, are officially noted as increasing the risk of muscle-related adverse reactions.

This structure ensures that the officially documented side effects, from common discomforts to rare, serious events, are clearly communicated according to regulatory standards.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Official regulatory information describes a Giabri overdose profile centered on the risk of severe systemic toxicity, necessitating immediate emergency care.

Documented Overdose Manifestations

Symptoms reported in regulatory documents primarily affect three key areas:

  • Central Nervous System (CNS) Effects: These can range from moderate CNS depression (e.g., drowsiness, confusion) to more critical presentations such as coma and generalized seizures.
  • Serotonin-Related Toxicity: A potentially life-threatening complication known as Serotonin Syndrome is a documented risk. Manifestations include rapid heart rate (tachycardia), profuse sweating, mental status changes, and severe neuromuscular abnormalities (e.g., rigidity, twitching).
  • Cardiovascular and Autonomic Instability: This involves serious heart rhythm abnormalities, irregular heartbeat, sudden changes in blood pressure, and alterations in body temperature.

Emergency Response Instructions

Immediate medical help is required if a Giabri overdose is suspected. This is critical because of the potential for severe CNS and Serotonin-related effects that can progress rapidly. The need for emergency services, such as calling 911 or a poison control center, is mandatory if the affected person displays any signs of serious toxicity. Specific emergency actions are required if the individual has collapsed, had a seizure, is experiencing trouble breathing, or is unresponsive.

All individuals with suspected overdose should receive immediate medical assessment and supportive care.

Therapeutic Uses of Giabri

What Giabri Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Giabri (Ciprofibrate) is commonly used for the long-term management of dyslipidemia, a condition associated with systemic imbalance in blood fat levels. Its therapeutic role involves addressing these imbalances, which may contribute to support general well-being. Fibrates are utilized in cases where other primary lipid-lowering treatments are considered unsuitable.


Treatment of Severe Lipid Disorders

Giabri is considered relevant for patients presenting with severe hypertriglyceridemia or mixed hyperlipidaemia. It is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed to address symptom clusters such as very high triglyceride levels and low HDL cholesterol. By managing these markedly elevated triglyceride levels, the medication provides supportive benefit that may assist with reducing the risk of acute pancreatitis, an inflammatory complication. The long-term therapeutic focus is to contribute to the long-term support of heart health in these patient populations, including those with Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

“Giabri may assist with managing complex blood fat profiles and provides supportive relief when symptoms interfere with routine activities.”

Clinical Focus: Managing Blood Lipids Giabri is commonly used to help with managing high triglyceride levels and may assist with managing HDL cholesterol, supporting the reduction of cardiovascular risks in appropriate patient groups.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

This section outlines the official eligibility criteria and restrictions for Giabri (givosiran) as established by government regulatory agencies.

Eligibility Scope

Category Official Regulatory Status
Populations for whom use is allowed Adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older who have a diagnosis of Acute Hepatic Porphyria (AHP).
Populations for whom use is contraindicated Patients with known severe hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylaxis) to givosiran or any excipients.

Special Population Limitations

Category Official Regulatory Status
Age-Related Rules Use in children younger than 12 years is not established due to insufficient data. No dose adjustment is required for older adults ( 65 years).
Hepatic Function No dose adjustment is needed for mild hepatic impairment. Use has not been studied in moderate or severe hepatic impairment. Hepatic function must be monitored, and treatment may be interrupted for severe transaminase elevations.
Renal Function No dose adjustment is needed for mild, moderate, or severe renal impairment (eGFR 15 mL/min/1.73 m^2). Use has not been studied in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or patients on dialysis. Renal function must be monitored.
Pregnancy/Lactation Pregnancy: There are limited data; the decision to use the medicine must weigh the expected maternal benefit against potential risks. Lactation: It is unknown if the drug is present in human milk, and a decision must be made whether to discontinue breastfeeding or discontinue the therapy.

Connection to the overall eligibility profile: Regulatory documents strictly define Giabri's patient population by the AHP diagnosis and a minimum age of 12. The absolute exclusion is a history of severe hypersensitivity. Use in other special populations, particularly those with severe hepatic or renal dysfunction or in pediatric, pregnant, or lactating individuals, is limited by either lack of established data or the need for increased clinical caution.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Giabri (givosiran) can change the way certain other medicines work in the body by affecting key enzymes responsible for drug breakdown. This is due to its effect as an inducer of specific hepatic CYP450 enzymes.

Enzyme System Effect on Co-administered Drug Practical Implication
CYP1A2 Decreased concentration of sensitive substrates Avoid concomitant use where a small change in concentration may lead to loss of therapeutic effect.
CYP2D6 Decreased concentration of sensitive substrates Avoid concomitant use where a small change in concentration may lead to loss of therapeutic effect.

Co-administration with medicines that are sensitive substrates of CYP1A2 or CYP2D6 must be avoided if a minimal reduction in the co-administered drug’s concentration could lead to a serious or life-threatening loss of efficacy. This restriction applies particularly to drug classes that rely heavily on these pathways for clearance. The regulatory profile indicates that a reduction in the concentrations of such sensitive substrates is expected, and the combination should be avoided to prevent treatment failure of the interacting medicine.

Mechanism of Action

How Giabri Works: Mechanism of Action

Giabri (Ciprofibrate) operates by engaging in the selective agonism of the Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor alpha ( PPARalpha), a nuclear receptor highly expressed in tissues active in lipid catabolism, such as the liver. By binding to and activating PPARalpha, the drug acts as a central mechanism that initiates the transcriptional modulation of specific genes involved in lipid processing.

The activation of PPARalpha leads to two primary consequences for lipoprotein metabolism. First, it causes the upregulation of Lipoprotein Lipase ( LPL) and the simultaneous downregulation of its physiological inhibitor, Apolipoprotein C-III ( ApoC-III). This accelerates the hydrolysis and subsequent clearance rate of triglyceride-rich particles, such as VLDL, from the plasma, which results in a shift in the ratio of circulating lipoproteins. Second, the mechanism promotes the transcription of genes for Apolipoprotein A-I ( ApoA-I). This enhances the formation and functionality of High-Density Lipoprotein ( HDL) particles, thereby facilitating the molecular pathway involved in the transport of cholesterol from peripheral tissues.

Dosage and Administration Information

Administration Overview

Giabri is a medication administered through an intravenous infusion. This process is typically performed by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting, such as a hospital or infusion center. The procedure involves the gradual delivery of the medication directly into the bloodstream through a vein.

Preparation for the Infusion

Prior to the start of the session, the healthcare provider will prepare the necessary equipment and ensure the medication is at the appropriate temperature. The infusion site, usually on the arm or hand, is cleaned and prepared for the insertion of the catheter.

During the Infusion

During the administration process, the rate of the infusion is carefully monitored. Individuals remain seated or reclined throughout the duration of the procedure. Healthcare staff observe the patient to ensure the process continues as intended and to address any immediate needs that may arise during the session.

Duration and Frequency

The length of time required for each infusion session can vary based on the specific requirements determined by the healthcare provider. Similarly, the frequency of administration—how often the sessions occur—is established as part of a personalized management plan. Maintaining a consistent schedule for these sessions is a standard component of using this medication.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Giabri: Recent Clinical Evidence


Evidence for Correcting Severe Blood Fat Imbalances

Studies have been conducted to examine how Giabri (Ciprofibrate) affects the levels of various fats in the blood, such as very high triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol. These were typically short-term randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or multi-center observational settings, generally lasting approximately 8 to 12 weeks. Research focused on adult populations presenting with dyslipidemia, and researchers monitored outcomes by measuring lipid levels.

Research describes that when this medicine was evaluated in these patient groups, findings describe patterns where reported measurements of plasma triglycerides and non-HDL cholesterol were reduced. Studies also reported measurements showing higher HDL cholesterol levels in some observed populations. A limitation is that there is limited information for long-term outcomes regarding these changes beyond the initial months of treatment.


Research on Long-Term Cardiovascular Outcomes

Research examined the long-term impact of the entire class of fibrate medicines (which includes Giabri) on major clinical events, such as the occurrence of nonfatal heart events or all-cause mortality. These studies were large and lasted up to five years.

Evidence suggests that, across the fibrate class, research explored patterns related to the occurrence of nonfatal coronary heart disease events. However, analysis of the class-wide long-term evidence did not describe a clear or consistent pattern regarding all-cause mortality across the trials studied.

No dedicated, large-scale, long-term RCTs have been published that specifically measured the effect of Giabri monotherapy on major cardiovascular events. Therefore, this evidence often relies on extrapolation from trials involving other fibrate drugs. The certainty regarding individual outcomes remains low.

Key Studies & References

  1. The role of fibrates in the prevention of cardiovascular disease--a pooled meta-analysis of the randomized controlled trials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Giabri (FAQ)

Q: What were the key findings from the clinical trials for Giabri?

A: Research from the two main randomized, placebo-controlled Phase III trials (named APOLLO-1 and APOLLO-2) showed that Giabri, when administered in specific demand boluses, was observed to provide a greater degree of pain relief compared to placebo in patients experiencing moderate to severe acute pain following two types of surgical procedures: bunionectomy and abdominoplasty. The study findings suggested the drug was comparable in pain-relieving effect to morphine given in 1mg demand boluses.

Q: Does Giabri cause fewer side effects than other similar pain medicines?

A: Post-hoc analyses of pooled data from the APOLLO trials and the ATHENA observational study suggested an association with a lower frequency of certain opioid-related adverse events, specifically opioid-induced respiratory depression and gastrointestinal complications, compared to morphine. However, the studies were not primarily designed to assess differences in safety outcomes, and further prospective studies are needed to clarify if the drug has an improved safety profile relative to conventional opioids.

Q: Is Giabri a first-line treatment option?

A: Giabri is an FDA-approved prescription medication indicated for the management of moderate to severe acute pain where the use of an opioid analgesic is appropriate, and for patients for whom alternative treatments are inadequate. The drug’s status in clinical practice often depends on the specific patient setting and a prescriber's professional judgment.

Q: What type of pain is Giabri approved to address?

A: Giabri is a medication that has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of moderate to severe acute pain in adult patients. The approval specifies that the use of an opioid analgesic should be appropriate, and the patient's condition should be one for which alternative treatments are inadequate.

Q: Was the drug studied in real-world settings?

A: Yes. The ATHENA observational cohort study collected data from both surgical and non-surgical patients in a more pragmatic setting. This study reported observations of rapid pain relief following the administration of Giabri, in patients who received it either alone or as part of a multimodal pain management plan. Observational studies, while informative about real-world use, do not establish efficacy in the same manner as randomized controlled trials.

Q: Are there any long-term studies on Giabri?

A: The key evidence supporting Giabri’s approval was primarily derived from short-term clinical trials focused on immediate pain relief after surgery. Data regarding long-term use and the effects beyond the acute pain management setting are limited in the primary registration trials. Decisions regarding extended use should be made by a healthcare provider.

How should Giabri be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Giabri?

The official storage and disposal guidelines for Giabri (Ciprofibrate) tablets are defined to maintain product stability and protect the environment.


Storage Requirements

Storage Constraint Regulatory Requirement
Temperature Limit Do not store above 25 C
Packaging Keep in the original package to protect from moisture
Safety Keep out of the sight and reach of children
Stability Do not use after the expiry date printed on the carton

Disposal Instructions

When Giabri is no longer needed or has expired, it must be discarded properly. Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Consult a pharmacist for instructions on how to dispose of unused or expired Ciprofibrate according to local regulatory requirements.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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