Health Library

Gemfibrozil (By mouth)

Gemfibrozil (jem-FYE-broe-zil)

Treats high cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Also used to prevent heart disease.

Brand Name(s):

Lopid

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed. This medicine is usually taken 30 minutes before the morning and evening meals.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not use this medicine together with dasabuvir, repaglinide, or simvastatin.
• Some medicines can affect how gemfibrozil works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
  • Atrasentan, atorvastatin, bosentan, colchicine, dabrafenib, enzalutamide, ezetimibe, fluvastatin, glyburide, irinotecan, loperamide, montelukast, olmesartan, paclitaxel, pioglitazone, pitavastatin, pravastatin, rifampin, rosiglitazone, rosuvastatin, valsartan
  • Blood thinner (including warfarin)
• If you are taking colestipol, take it at least 2 hours before or after you take gemfibrozil.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, cataracts, diabetes, gallbladder disease, an underactive thyroid, or if you drink alcohol regularly.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Increased risk of gallbladder disease
  • Serious muscle problems, including myositis and myopathy
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blistering, peeling, red skin rash
• Muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness
• Severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting
• Unusual tiredness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Stomach upset

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024