Lopid

Who is Lopid for ?

Gemfibrozil is used with diet changes (restriction of cholesterol and fat intake) to reduce the amount of cholesterol and certain fatty substances in your blood. Accumulation of cholesterol and fats along the walls of your arteries (a process known as atherosclerosis) decreases blood flow and, therefore, the oxygen supply to your heart, brain, and other parts of your body. Lowering your blood level of cholesterol and fats may help to prevent heart disease, angina (chest pain), strokes, and heart attacks. this medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Gemfibrozil is a fibric acid derivative. How it works is largely unknown, but it is believed that through a variety of mechanisms, it reduces production of cholesterol, increases breakdown of triglycerides, and promotes elimination of certain types of cholesterol from the body.

When should I be careful taking Lopid ?

Before taking gemfibrozil,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to gemfibrozil or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially anticoagulants ("blood thinners") such as warfarin (Coumadin) and vitamins. If you take insulin or oral diabetes medications, your dose may need to be changed because gemfibrozil can increase the amount of sugar in your blood. Talk to your doctor before changing your dose.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had ulcers; diabetes; or gallbladder, kidney, or liver disease.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking gemfibrozil, call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking gemfibrozil.

Side Effects

Although side effects from gemfibrozil are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• stomach pain
• diarrhea
• constipation
• vomiting
• gas
• headache
• dizziness
• blurred vision
• flushing

If you experience either of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• muscle pain
• weakness