Gemfibrozil tablets
What do gemfibrozil tablets do?
GEMFIBROZIL(Lopid(R)) can help prevent cholesterol clogging blood vessels. It lowers blood fats and cholesterol for patients who are at risk of getting heart disease or a stroke. It is only for patients whose cholesterol level is not controlled by diet. It is not a cure.
What should my health care professional know before I take gemfibrozil?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• gallbladder disease
• kidney disease
• liver disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to gemfibrozil, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take gemfibrozil tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. Take your doses twice a day, 30 minutes before the morning and evening meal unless otherwise directed. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What other medicines can interact with gemfibrozil?
• bexarotene
• other medications used to lower cholesterol, like colestipol, and the "statin" drugs like atorvastatin, cerivastatin, fluvastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin or simvastatin
• ursodiol
• warfarin
• went yeast
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking gemfibrozil?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• cough or hoarseness
• dark yellow or brown urine
• fever or chills
• lower back or side pain
• stomach pain with nausea and vomiting
• muscle pain
• pain or difficulty passing urine
• unusual tiredness
• yellowing of the eyes or skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• blurred vision
• drowsiness, dizziness
• headache
• sexual dysfunction (loss of sexual desire)
• stomach gas, heartburn
