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Gemfibrozil

 

Gemfibrozil (generic Lopid) Review

brand name: Lopid
generic name: Gemfibrozil

How does it work?

This medicine contains the active ingredient gemfibrozil, which is a type of medicine known as a fibrate. It works by reducing the production of fats (lipids) by the liver. These lipids include cholesterol and triglycerides.

Cholesterol is one of the body's fats (lipids). Cholesterol and triglycerides are important building blocks in the structure of cells and are also used in making hormones and producing energy. To some extent, the cholesterol level in blood depends on what you eat but it is mainly dependent on how the body makes cholesterol in the liver.

Having too much cholesterol in the blood is not a disease in itself, but can lead to the hardening and narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis).

For the sake of simplicity, there are two sorts of cholesterol; a 'bad' sort called low density lipoprotein (LDL) and a 'good' sort called high density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL is deposited in the arteries and increases the risk of heart disease, while HDL actually protects the arteries against this. Triglycerides can also be considered as 'bad' fats; they also contribute to the risk of heart disease.

Gemfibrozil increases the breakdown of triglycerides already present in the body. It also decreases the production of triglycerides by the liver. This lowers triglyceride levels.

Gemfibrozil lowers LDL cholesterol by increasing the amount which is expelled from the gall bladder in the bile. In addition, it increases the levels of HDL cholesterol. The overall result of this is lowered levels of "bad fats" and raised levels of "good fats".

Fibrates have an important role in the prevention of heart disease. They reduce the risk of fats being deposited in the major blood vessels of the heart. Any blockage in the blood vessels limits the amount of blood and therefore oxygen being carried to the heart muscle. In severe cases this can result in a heart attack (myocardial infarction).

This medicine is only used when blood lipid levels cannot be lowered by diet and exercise alone. It is important to follow a diet and exercise regime when taking gemfibrozil.

What is Gemfibrozil (Lopid)?

The exact way that Gemfibrozil works to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides (types of fat) in the blood is not known. High levels of fat in the blood are associated with an increased chance of heart disease, strokes, and other illnesses.

Gemfibrozil (Lopid) may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Gemfibrozil (Lopid) is used to lower high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.

What are Gemfibrozil (Lopid) tablets?

Gemfibrozil(Lopid®) 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. Generic Gemfibrozil tablets are available.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Lopid

To avoid the possibility of severe muscle-wasting side effects, do not use any of the cholesterol-lowering "statin" drugs while taking Lopid. Drugs in this category include:

Atorvastatin (Lipitor)
Fluvastatin (Lescol)
Lovastatin (Mevacor)
Pravastatin (Pravachol)
Simvastatin (Zocor)

Also be sure to check with your doctor before taking Lopid along with a blood-thinning drug such as Coumadin. The dosage of the blood-thinner must be reduced to avoid abnormal bleeding.

What is it used for?

• Prevention of coronary heart disease in men aged 40-55 with hyperlipidaemia that has not responded to diet or other measures
  
  
• High levels of fats (lipids) such as cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood (hyperlipidaemia)
  
  

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Gemfibrozil (Lopid)?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

• gallbladder disease.
• kidney disease; or
• liver disease;

You may not be able to take Gemfibrozil (Lopid), or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Gemfibrozil (Lopid) is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Gemfibrozil will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether Gemfibrozil (Lopid) passes into breast milk. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.