Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: GEMFIBROZIL - ORAL (jem-FYE-broh-zill)
BRAND NAME(S): Gemcor, Lopid
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Gemfibrozil (also known as a fibrate medication) is used along with a proper diet to help lower fats (triglycerides) and cholesterol in the blood. This drug is usually prescribed after non-drug treatment options have not been fully successful at lowering cholesterol (e.g., diet change, increase in exercise, weight loss if overweight). This drug is thought to work by decreasing the amount of fat produced by the liver. Reducing cholesterol and triglycerides lowers the risk of heart disease and helps prevent strokes and heart attacks. This drug also helps to prevent pancreas disease (pancreatitis) in patients with very high blood levels of triglycerides.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth usually twice a day, 30 minutes before your morning and evening meals, or as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same times each day. It may take between 1-3 months before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high triglycerides or cholesterol do not feel sick.
SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach/abdominal upset or pain, dizziness, drowsiness, unusual taste, numbness/tingling of hands/feet, or blurred vision may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: decreased sexual desire or ability, depression. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: signs of infection (e.g. fever, persistent sore throat), easy bruising/bleeding, unusual fatigue, irregular heartbeat. This medication may infrequently cause muscle damage (which can rarely lead to a very serious, possibly fatal, condition called rhabdomyolysis). Stop taking this drug and tell your doctor immediately if you develop: muscle pain/tenderness/weakness (especially with fever or unusual tiredness), unusual change in the amount of urine. This drug may infrequently cause abdominal problems (e.g., gallstones, gallbladder disease requiring surgery). Stop taking this drug and tell your doctor immediately if you develop: severe stomach/abdominal pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, unusual tiredness. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
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- Drugs: What You Should Know About Your Drugs - Find out what you should know about your drugs such as side effects, warnings and precautions, storage information, and if a generic version is as good as the brand name.
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