Lopid (Gemfibrozil)

Lopid is a cholesterol-lowering medicine used, in addition to an appropriate diet, to treat adults with high triglycerides. Lopid is used when diet and exercise alone have not lowered triglycerides, and when you are at risk for pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Also, Lopid can lower the risk of developing heart disease in certain people with high cholesterol.

Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications while you are taking Lopid. Lopid may have an effect on medicines that help prevent blood clotting (such as the blood thinner warfarin). If you are taking Lopid with a blood thinner, your doctor will monitor your blood-clotting tests. Also, tell your doctor about any cholesterol-lowering medicines you may be taking as he or she will need to determine if the combination of Lopid and one of those medications is right for you. Lopid can cause liver problems. Your doctor will monitor your liver function. Lopid can increase your risk of developing gallstones. Call your doctor right away if you experience abdominal (stomach) pain, nausea, or vomiting. These may be signs of inflammation of your gallbladder or pancreas. Your doctor will also do studies to check for gallstones. Lopid can cause serious muscle conditions that may lead to kidney damage. Your risk can increase if you are also taking other cholesterol-lowering medicines known as statins (atorvastatin, fluvastatin, lovastatin, or pravastatin). Tell your doctor right away if you experience unexplained muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness, especially if you also have a fever or general body discomfort. Lopid can cause cancer, cataracts, pancreatitis, severe allergic reactions, and clotting problems.