Lopid

Common Name: gemfibrozil

How does Lopid work?

Gemfibrozil belongs to the class of medications known as fibrates. It is used to treat high cholesterol. It works by blocking the production of certain types of cholesterol, especially the type known as triglycerides. Gemfibrozil is used in combination with a healthy diet and exercise to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Reduction of cholesterol levels has been shown to reduce the risks associated with heart disease, such as heart attack. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Lopid?

The recommended adult dose of gemfibrozil is 600 mg twice daily 30 minutes before the morning and evening meals. The maximum daily recommended dose of gemfibrozil is 1500 mg. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones above, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you forget a dose of this medication take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

What form(s) does Lopid come in?

Lopid® is available in strengths of 300 mg and 600 mg. 300 mg: Each maroon and white capsule contains gemfibrozil 300 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients include cornstarch, polysorbate 80, and silica gel; the capsule shell contains colloidal silicon dioxide, FD&C Blue No. 1, FD&C Red No. 3, gelatin, sodium lauryl sulfate, and titanium dioxide. 600 mg: Each white, ellipsoidal, film-coated tablet, imprinted "Lopid 600 mg" on one side and "Parke-Davis" on the other, contains gemfibrozil 600 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients include calcium stearate, candelilla wax, colloidal silicon dioxide, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, methylparaben, microcrystalline cellulose, Opacode Black, polyethylene glycol, polysorbate 80, pregelatinized starch, propylparaben, and titanium dioxide. This medication does not contain gluten, lactose, paraben, sodium, sulfite, or tartrazine.

What should I NOT take with Lopid?

Gemfibrozil should not be taken by anyone who: has severe liver disease, kidney disease, or gallbladder disease is allergic to gemfibrozil or any of the ingredients of the medication is allergic to fenofibrate or any other of the class of "fibrates" (e.g., clofibrate, bezafibrate) is pregnant is breast-feeding has a disorder known as Type 1 hyperlipoproteinemia

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Lopid?

Use with "statin" medications: Medications from another class of cholesterol-lowering agents known as "statins" (e.g., simvastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin) should not be used at the same time as gemfibrozil. This combination of medications can lead to a serious condition known as rhabdomyolysis, which may lead to kidney failure. The symptoms of rhabdomyolysis are severe muscle pain, muscle tenderness, weakness, and fever. If you notice these symptoms, contact your doctor right away. Liver function: People who have a history of liver disorders or jaundice should use gemfibrozil with caution. People taking gemfibrozil need to have their liver function tested regularly while they are on this medication. Medical conditions: This medication may increase the risk for gallstones. Pregnancy: Strict birth control methods must be used by women who may become pregnant while taking this medication. If pregnancy occurs despite birth control methods, gemfibrozil should be stopped and the doctor should be contacted. Women who are planning pregnancy should stop taking gemfibrozil several months before conception. Breast-feeding: This medication should not be taken by nursing mothers. A decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. Children: The safety and effectiveness of this medication have not been established for use by children.