DIN (Drug Identification Number)

How does Lopid work? What will it do for me?

Gemfibrozil belongs to the class of medications known as fibrates. It is used to treat high cholesterol. It works by blocking the production of certain types of cholesterol, especially the type known as triglycerides. Gemfibrozil is used in combination with a healthy diet and exercise to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Reduction of cholesterol levels has been shown to reduce the risks associated with heart disease, such as heart attack.

Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Lopid?

The recommended adult dose of gemfibrozil is 600 mg twice daily 30 minutes before the morning and evening meals. The maximum daily recommended dose of gemfibrozil is 1500 mg.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones above, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is very important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you forget a dose of this medication take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

What form(s) does Lopid come in?

300 mg
Each maroon and white hard gelatin capsule printed "LOPID" in grey on body and printed "PD 669" in gray on cap contains gemfibrozil 300 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: Capsule: cornstarch, polysorbate 80. Capsule shell: contains silicon dioxide, FD&C Blue No. 1, FD&C Red No. 3, gelatin, sodium lauryl sulfate and titanium dioxide. Energy: 3.4 kJ (0.8 kcal). Gluten-, lactose-, paraben-, sodium-, sulfite- and tartrazine-free.

600 mg
Each white, ellipsoidal, film-coated tablet, imprinted in black ink "Lopid 600 mg" on one side and "Parke-Davis" on the other, contains gemfibrozil 600 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: calcium stearate, candelilla wax, colloidal silicon dioxide, hypromellose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, methylparaben, microcrystalline cellulose, Black Fine ink, polyethylene glycol, polysorbate 80, pregelatinized starch, propylparaben and white Opaspray. Energy: 2.0 kJ (0.47 kcal). Gluten-, lactose-, sodium-, sulfite- and tartrazine-free.

Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.

Who should NOT take Lopid?

Gemfibrozil should not be taken by anyone who:

• has severe liver disease, kidney disease, or gallbladder disease
• is allergic to gemfibrozil or any of the ingredients of the medication
• is allergic to fenofibrate or any other of the class of "fibrates" (e.g., clofibrate, bezafibrate)
• is pregnant
• is breast-feeding
• has a disorder known as Type 1 hyperlipoproteinemia