This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Lopid Consumer Information
LOPID
Generic Name: gemfibrozil (jem FI broe zil)
Brand Names: Lopid
What is the most important information I should know about gemfibrozil?
- Follow any special diet and exercise plan recommended by your doctor while taking this medication. Diet and exercise are important factors in regulating cholesterol.
What is gemfibrozil?
- The exact way that gemfibrozil works to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides (types of fat) in the blood is not known. High levels of fat in the blood are associated with an increased chance of heart disease, strokes, and other illnesses.
- Gemfibrozil is used to lower high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.
- Gemfibrozil may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking gemfibrozil?
- Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
- liver disease;
- kidney disease; or
- gallbladder disease.
- You may not be able to take gemfibrozil, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
- Gemfibrozil is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether gemfibrozil will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
- It is not known whether gemfibrozil passes into breast milk. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take gemfibrozil?
- Take gemfibrozil exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
- Gemfibrozil is usually taken twice daily, 30 minutes before breakfast and dinner. Follow your doctor's instructions.
- It is important to take gemfibrozil regularly to get the most benefit.
- Do not stop taking gemfibrozil unless directed by your doctor. It may take up to 3 months for you to see the effects of this medication.
- Your doctor may want you to have blood tests or other medical evaluations during treatment with gemfibrozil to monitor progress and side effects.
- Store gemfibrozil at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
What happens if I overdose?
- An overdose of this medication is unlikely to threaten life. Call an emergency room or poison control left for advice.
- Symptoms of a gemfibrozil overdose may include diarrhea, headache, and muscle pain.
What should I avoid while taking gemfibrozil?
- Follow any special diet and exercise plan recommended by your doctor while taking this medication. Diet and exercise are important factors in regulating cholesterol.
- Use caution driving, operating machinery, and performing other hazardous activities until you know how gemfibrozil affects you. It may cause some drowsiness or dizziness, especially at the start of therapy.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.