Gemfibrozil

About Gemfibrozil

This belongs to the group of medicines known as lipid-regulating drugs.

Gemfibrozil is used to lower levels of cholesterol and other lipids (fats) in the blood. Cholesterol is made naturally in the body and is absorbed from the food we eat. If levels of cholesterol are too high in the blood stream, it can stick to the walls of blood vessels. Eventually this leads to a narrowing of the blood vessels and can even block them completely.

High levels of cholesterol do not make people feel ill but can cause problems if left untreated. Gemfibrozil may help prevent medical problems caused by cholesterol and fats building up in blood vessels, such as heart disease and other problems.

Gemfibrozil is available in capsule and tablet form.

It is also sometimes known as: Lopid. You may notice the use of either of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before Taking Gemfibrozil

Before taking Gemfibrozil make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from liver, kidney or gall bladder problems (including gallstones)
• if you suffer from alcoholism or drink large amounts of alcohol
• if you suffer from thyroid problems
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines

How to Take Gemfibrozil

• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Take Gemfibrozil exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Try to take Gemfibrozil at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you do miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember and continue taking it at the usual times. If it is nearly time for your next dose, leave out the missed dose, never take two doses to make up.
• Gemfibrozil is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of Gemfibrozil contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside Gemfibrozil.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor.
• Many people are able to control their condition by carefully following their doctor's directions for a healthy diet and exercise. Medicine is prescribed only when additional help is needed and Gemfibrozil is only effective when a healthy diet is also followed.
• Gemfibrozil is less effective if you are greatly overweight. It may be very important for you to go on a weight reducing diet. However, check with your doctor before going on any diet.
• Even if you do not feel unwell, never stop taking Gemfibrozil without checking with your doctor first. When you stop taking Gemfibrozil, your fat levels may increase again.
• Do not smoke. Smoking tends to increase your cholesterol level and also puts a strain on the heart and circulatory system.
• Avoid drinking too much alcohol while you are being treated with Gemfibrozil. Alcohol can also increase your cholesterol levels.
• Gemfibrozil can occasionally cause dizziness and blurred vision. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert or able to see properly.
• Before having any kind of surgery, including dental or emergency treatment, tell the doctor, dentist or surgeon you are taking Gemfibrozil.

Can Gemfibrozil cause problems?

As well as their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Diarrhoea, constipation, tummy ache, feeling or being sick, skin rashes, itching, sexual problems, headache, dizziness, blurred vision, painful extremities (fingers, toes, nose etc.).

Important: If you experience pain and weakness in your muscles for no obvious reason or jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes) contact your doctor immediately.

If you experience any other worrying or troublesome symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist.

How to store Gemfibrozil

• Keep out of the reach of children
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat
• Do not keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your pharmacist who will dispose of them for you

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 24/06/2005