Drug Name

Lopid (Gemfibrozil)

 Drug Uses

Lopid (also known as a fibrate medication) is used along with a proper diet to help lower fats (triglycerides) and cholesterol in the blood. This drug is usually prescribed after non-drug treatment options have not been fully successful at lowering cholesterol (e.g., diet change, increase in exercise, weight loss if overweight). This drug is thought to work by decreasing the amount of fat produced by the liver. Reducing cholesterol and triglycerides lowers the risk of heart disease and helps prevent strokes and heart attacks. This drug also helps to prevent pancreas disease (pancreatitis) in patients with very high blood levels of triglycerides.

Take this medication by mouth usually twice a day, 30 minutes before your morning and evening meals, or as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same times each day. It may take between 1-3 months before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high triglycerides or cholesterol do not feel sick.

 Drug Class and Mechanism

Lopid is a lipid- and cholesterol-modifying medicine. It reduces triglycerides and increases cholesterol carried in high density lipoprotein (HDL) in the blood. HDL cholesterol is sometimes called "good" cholesterol because higher concentrations of HDL cholesterol in the blood are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. The decrease in triglycerides is thought to be due in part to reduced release of triglycerides from fat tissue in the body. In one large study, lopid decreased the risk of heart attacks but did not affect the overall survival of persons with high cholesterols.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store the US product at room temperature between 68-77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Store the Canadian product at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

 Warnings/Precautions

Before taking lopid, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, or if you have any other allergies. This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: liver disease (e.g., primary biliary cirrhosis), gallbladder disease, severe kidney disease. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: diabetes (poorly controlled), underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), alcohol use. The rare development of severe muscle damage (see Side Effects) can infrequently lead to serious kidney problems. This medication is usually stopped temporarily if you have any condition which can increase your risk of developing kidney problems. Before stopping your medication, notify your doctor immediately if you have any of the following conditions: major surgery, trauma, serious illness (e.g., sepsis, severe metabolic/endocrine/electrolyte disorders), very low blood pressure, uncontrolled seizures. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

 Possible Side Effects

Stomach/abdominal upset or pain, dizziness, drowsiness, unusual taste, numbness/tingling of hands/feet, or blurred vision may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: decreased sexual desire or ability, depression. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: signs of infection (e.g. fever, persistent sore throat), easy bruising/bleeding, unusual fatigue, irregular heartbeat. This medication may infrequently cause muscle damage (which can rarely lead to a very serious, possibly fatal, condition called rhabdomyolysis). Stop taking this drug and tell your doctor immediately if you develop: muscle pain/tenderness/weakness (especially with fever or unusual tiredness), unusual change in the amount of urine. This drug may infrequently cause abdominal problems (e.g., gallstones, gallbladder disease requiring surgery). Stop taking this drug and tell your doctor immediately if you develop: severe stomach/abdominal pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, unusual tiredness. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

 More Information

Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., blood triglyceride and cholesterol levels, liver function tests, complete blood count, fasting blood sugar levels or FBS) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details. For best results this medication should be used along with exercise, a low-fat/low-cholesterol diet, and weight loss program if you are overweight. In addition, check your blood pressure regularly, seek medical treatment if your blood pressure is high, and stop smoking to further help reduce your risk for a heart attack or stroke. Consult your doctor for more details.