$Unique_ID{BRK03166}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{gemfibrozil}
$Subject{Lopid Parke-Davis Antihyperlipidemic lipid-lowering drug gemfibrozil
hyperlipidemia high blood fat levels fats}
$Volume{}
$Log{
Lopid*0316601.scf}

Copyright (C) 1993 Publications International, Ltd.


gemfibrozil
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BRAND NAME (Manufacturer)

     Lopid (Parke-Davis)

TYPE OF DRUG

     Antihyperlipidemic (lipid-lowering drug)

INGREDIENT

     gemfibrozil

DOSAGE FORM

     Tablets (600 mg)

STORAGE

     Gemfibrozil capsules should be stored at room temperature in a tightly
closed container.

USES

     Gemfibrozil is used to treat hyperlipidemia (high blood fat levels) in
patients who have not responded to diet, weight reduction, exercise, and
control of blood sugar.  It is not clear how gemfibrozil lowers blood lipid
levels, but it is thought to decrease the body's production of certain fats.

TREATMENT

     In order to maximize its effectiveness, gemfibrozil should be taken 30
minutes before meals.
     If you miss a dose of this medication, take the missed dose as soon as
possible, unless it is almost time for the next dose.  In that case, do not
take the missed dose; just return to your regular schedule.  Do not double the
dose.

SIDE EFFECTS

     Minor.

     Constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, gas, headache, insomnia,
loss of appetite, nausea, and stomach upset.  These side effects should
disappear in several days, as your body adjusts to the medication.
     To relieve constipation, increase the amount of fiber in your diet (bran,
salads, fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole-grain breads), exercise, and
drink more water (unless your doctor directs you to do otherwise).
     If you feel dizzy, sit or lie down awhile; get up slowly, and be careful
on stairs.
     To help relieve mouth dryness, chew sugarless gum or suck on ice chips.

     Major.

     Tell your doctor about any side effects that are persistent or
particularly bothersome.  IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR about
back pain, blurred vision, fatigue, muscle cramps, rash, swollen or painful
joints, tingling sensations, or yellowing of the eyes or skin.

INTERACTIONS

     Gemfibrozil can increase the effects of oral anticoagulants (blood
thinners, such as warfarin), which can lead to bleeding complications.  BE
SURE TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR if you are already taking a medication of this type.

WARNINGS

     * Tell your doctor about unusual or allergic reactions you have had to
any medications, especially to gemfibrozil.
     * Before starting to take this medication, be sure to tell your doctor if
you now have, or if you have ever had, biliary disorders; gallstones or
gallbladder disease; kidney disease; or liver disease.
     * If this drug makes you dizzy or blurs your vision, do not take part in
activities that require alertness, such as driving a car or operating
potentially dangerous equipment.
     * Do not stop taking this medication unless you first check with your
doctor.  Stopping the drug abruptly may lead to a rapid increase in blood
lipid (fats) and cholesterol levels.  Your doctor may therefore want to start
you on a special diet or another medication when gemfibrozil is discontinued.
     * Large doses of gemfibrozil administered to animals for prolonged
periods of time have been associated with benign and malignant cancers.  This
association has not been observed in humans.
     * Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant.  Although gemfibrozil
appears to be safe during pregnancy, extensive studies in humans have not yet
been completed.  Also, tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding an infant.
It is not known whether or not gemfibrozil passes into breast milk.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.