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Home > Drug Category > Cholesterol Medications > Lopid and Equivalent

Lopid Information

Lopid (Gemfibrozil) is used to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides (fatty acids) in the blood. The drug also raises good cholesterol (HDL) levels in the blood. High levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood can increase your risk of atherosclerosis (clogged arteries) and pancreatitis (pancreas disease). The drug is also used to lower the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other heart complications in people with high cholesterol levels, which other treatment methods have not helped. The active ingredient in Lopid is Gemfibrozil. Fibrates like Gemfibrozil decrease the amount of fat produced by the liver.

Lopid Side Effects

The most common side effects of Lopid may include stomach upset, unusual taste, drowsiness, muscle pain, and numbness. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, such as:
• Burning or pain when urinating;
• Sharp pain in your upper stomach, especially after eating;
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, breathing difficulties, itching or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat;
• Signs of kidney problems, such as change in the amount of urine

Lopid Precautions

Do not use Lopid if you are allergic to Gemfibrozil or other ingredients in this medication. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, including if you have Liver disease, Kidney disease, Gallbladder disease, A history of gallstones, think you may be pregnant, or plan to become pregnant, are breastfeeding, or are planning to breastfeed. Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Lopid and other medications, such as colchicine, Fluvastatin, warfarin, iptacopan, ritonavir, etc. If you take other drugs to lower your cholesterol, take Gemfibrozil at least one hour before or at least 4 to 6 hours after taking these medications. Do not use Lopid if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant without informing your doctor. It is unknown if Lopid will harm an unborn baby. Do not use Lopid while breastfeeding without talking to your doctor. It is unknown if Gemfibrozil passes into breast milk or if it may harm a nursing infant. Do not give this drug to children.

Use your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Take this drug by mouth twice a day. Use the drug 30 minutes before breakfast and dinner. Take Lopid at the same time each day to help you remember. It may take up to 3 months before you get the full benefit of this drug. Lopid is often used along with proper diet and lifestyle changes like losing weight, stopping smoking, limiting alcohol, and exercising. You may need frequent medical tests even if you have no symptoms. The tests can help your doctor determine if the medicine is effective. Avoid eating foods high in fat or cholesterol while using Lopid. They can reduce the effectiveness of the drug. Avoid drinking alcohol when using this drug. It may interfere with your treatment. Store this medication at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Lopid?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Lopid.