What is Lopid?

Lopid helps reduce cholesterol and triglycerides (fatty acids) in the blood. High levels of these types of fat in the blood are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis (clogged arteries). Lopid is used together with diet to treat very high cholesterol and triglyceride levels in people with pancreatitis. Lopid is also used to lower the risk of stroke, heart attack, or other heart complications in certain people with high cholesterol and triglycerides who have not been helped by other treatment methods.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually twice a day (30 minutes before your morning and evening meals).
• Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
• If you also take certain other drugs to lower your cholesterol (bile acid-binding resins such as cholestyramine or colestipol), take gemfibrozil at least 1 hour before or at least 4-6 hours after taking these medications. These products can react with gemfibrozil, preventing its full absorption.
• Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to take it at the same times each day. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high cholesterol/triglycerides do not feel sick.
• It is very important to continue to follow your doctor's advice about diet and exercise. It may take up to 3 months before you get the full benefit of this drug.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history, especially of: liver disease (such as biliary cirrhosis), gallbladder disease, kidney disease, alcohol use.

Also be aware that:

• Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
• This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor for more details.
• It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Common side-effects may include but are not limited to:

• Stomach upset, stomach/abdominal pain, or unusual taste may occur.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side-effects:

• This medication may rarely cause gallstones and liver problems. Tell your doctor right away if you notice any of these serious side effects: severe stomach/abdominal pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine.
• Any of these symptoms: muscle pain/tenderness/weakness (especially with fever or unusual tiredness), signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine).
• Signs of infection (such as fever, persistent sore throat), easy bruising/bleeding, unusual tiredness, irregular heartbeat, numbness/tingling of arms/legs.
• Any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

Q: What happens if I miss a dose?

A: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Q: What should I avoid while taking Lopid?

A: Avoid eating foods that are high in fat or cholesterol. Lopid will not be as effective in lowering your cholesterol if you do not follow a cholesterol-lowering diet plan. Avoid drinking alcohol. It may interfere with your treatment.