Gemfibrozil
Generic Name:
Gemfibrozil
Brand Names:
Lopid
Gemfibrozil Description:
Gemfibrozil is a medication prescribed to patients to lower fatty acids, known as triglycerides, in the blood, and reduce total cholesterol.
The medication works by targeting the liver, causing it to produce reduced amounts of triglycerides while simultaneously increasing the removal of triglycerides from the blood.
Gemfibrozil Side Effects:
Treatment with gemfibrozil may cause the following side effects:
- Stomach pain
- Heartburn
- Muscle pain
- Blurred vision
For more information, visit our gemfibrozil side effects page.
Gemfibrozil Uses:
Gemfibrozil is approved for use in patients with hypercholesterolemia, or high blood cholesterol. The medication is also used to treat hypertriglyceridemia, or elevated levels of triglycerides in the blood.
Patients take gemfibrozil to control the level of fat in the blood and reduce total cholesterol. The medication can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and raise good cholesterol (HDL) and should be used in combination with a healthy diet (restrictive in saturated fat and cholesterol) and exercise.
Gemfibrozil Interactions:
Patients should speak with their doctor about the use of any medications, prescription or over-the-counter drugs, supplements and vitamins prior to beginning treatment with gemfibrozil.
Patients should alert their doctor of use of the following medications before initiating treatment:
- Blood thinners (warfarin)
- Cyclosporine
- Cholesterol-lowering medications
Patients with a history or current diagnosis of any of the following conditions should consult their doctor before treatment with gemfibrozil:
- Gallbladder problems
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
Gemfibrozil Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Gemfibrozil is available as a tablet and capsule that should be taken with a full glass of water. Patients should take the medication as prescribed by a doctor.
Gemfibrozil is typically taken twice a day at doses of 600 mg thirty minutes before morning and evening meals.
Missing a Dose of Gemfibrozil
If a dose of gemfibrozil is missed, take the dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose and take the next dose to resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose of gemfibrozil.
Gemfibrozil Overdose
If an overdose of gemfibrozil occurs, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of gemfibrozil overdose include:
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
- Joint pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Gemfibrozil FDA Approval:
December 21, 1981
Gemfibrozil Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
There are no recall or black box warnings associated with gemfibrozil.
Other Warnings:
Patients allergic to any of the ingredients of gemfibrozil and those with the following conditions should not take gemfibrozil:
- Liver disease
- Gallbladder disease
- Kidney disease
Gemfibrozil use has been linked to a higher risk of cancer, liver disease, pancreatitis, and gallstones. While gemfibrozil may decrease the risk of heart attack, these side effects should be taken into consideration.
-
September 9, 2010, 3:38 pm
-
September 8, 2010, 3:39 pm
-
September 7, 2010, 9:59 am
-
September 2, 2010, 12:51 pm
