GEMFIBROZIL

Gemfibrozil helps reduce cholesterol and triglycerides (fatty acids) in the blood. Increased risk of atherosclerosis (clogged arteries) is often associated with high levels of these types of fat in the blood.

Uses

Together with proper diet, Gemfibrozil is used to treat high cholesterol and triglyceride (fat) levels in the blood. This may help prevent the development of pancreatitis (inflammation or swelling of the pancreas) caused by high levels of triglycerides in the blood. It may also be used to prevent certain types of heart problems in patients with risk factors for heart problems.

Warnings

You should not take gemfibrozil if you have severe liver or kidney, or gallbladder disease. You should also avoid this drug if you are already taking repaglinide or simvastatin (Zocor, Vytorin, Juvisync, Simcor).

Side Effects

Side effects includes: stomach upset, stomach/abdominal pain, or unusual taste. tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly if any of these effects persist or worsen.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefits outweigh the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Precautions

Precautions

You should not use gemfibrozil if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

severe liver disease;
severe kidney disease;
gallbladder disease; or
if you are also taking repaglinide or simvastatin (Zocor, Vytorin, Juvisync, Simcor).

To make sure gemfibrozil is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

a history of gallstones; or
if you take a blood thinner (warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven).

Interactions

This drug may interact with other medications. It is important to notify your doctor if you are using other drugs—prescribed or not, to avoid risk for serious side effects. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Overdose & Brands

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call emergency hotline.

Available brand:

Lopid/Lopid OD