Lopid

 

 

Name              Lopid (Gemfibrozil)

 

 

Purpose          To lower triglycerides and raise HDL cholesterol; may also lower total and LDL cholesterol.

 

 

Works by       Decreasing the production of triglycerides in the liver.

 

 

Dose                Usual dose is 600 mg twice a day - 30 minutes before the morning and evening meals.

 

 

You should not take Lopid if

 

You have liver, gallbladder, or severe kidney disease.

 

You should be cautious about taking Lopid (Gemfibrozil) with high doses of Niacin (Niaspan) or statins; however combinations of these medications may be ordered by the Lipid MD with careful monitoring.

 

 

Possible side effects  Call your doctor or the cholesterol clinic if you have

 

Stomach pain, acute appendicitis, diarrhea, fatigue, dizziness, blurred vision, headaches, numbness or tingling, rash, muscle aches, indigestion, irregular heartbeat, or impotence.  Lopid may also be associated with gallbladder problems (such as gallstones), anemia and decreased fertility in males.

 

 

Follow-up lab tests

 

In addition to cholesterol profiles, other blood tests will be done periodically for safety monitoring.

 

 

Drug interactions

 

• Careful medical monitoring is required if you take Lopid with other cholesterol lowering statin medications due to a possible risk of muscle damage that could lead to kidney failure.
• *If you are taking Coumadin, your prothrombin times (PT’s) will be checked frequently because Lopid may increase the effect of Coumadin on your blood.  Please report any increase in bleeding or bruising.
• *If you are taking Prandin (repaglinide), your glucose should be checked frequently because Lopid may enhance the effects of Prandin and your dose may need to be changed.

   

 

Special instructions: 

• Always take the prescribed amount of medicine. 
• Report any muscle pain, tenderness, weakness, or cramps promptly.

   

• Have lab tests done promptly when ordered to avoid risks.
• If a dose is missed occasionally, skip that dose and get back on schedule.

PRECAUTION

 

Women capable of childbearing must have a pregnancy test (serum HCG) before starting this medication. This is a catergory X drug and not recommended for use during pregnancy or lactation.