Gemfibrozil
Molecule Description
Gemfibrozil is used to treat high cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the bl
ood. High levels of cholesterol may result in blockage of arteries (atherosclerosis), which leads to heart diseases.
Uses of Gemfibrozil
- To treat high cholesterol levels and triglyceride levels
- To reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack and other heart problems
Contraindications of Gemfibrozil
When should one not use Gemfibrozil
- Allergic to Gemfibrozil or any of the other ingredients of it
- You have liver, kidney or gall bladder disease
- You have a history of gall stones, photoallergy
- You are currently taking any medicine called Repaglinide
Side effects of Gemfibrozil
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Indigestion
- Spinning (vertigo)
- Headache, stomach pain
- Diarrhoea, constipation
Precautions and Warnings of Gemfibrozil
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Gemfibrozil during pregnancy?
A:
The effect of Gemfibrozil on the fetus is not known, consult your doctor if you are pregnant, your doctor will tell you on the use of this medicine after assessing the benefits over risks.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Gemfibrozil while breastfeeding?
A:
It is not safe to use this medicine during breastfeeding.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Gemfibrozil?
A:
This medicine may sometimes cause dizziness or tiredness. You may drive if you feel comfortable.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Gemfibrozil?
A:
Alcohol may interfere with treatment. It is better to avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- You have a history of muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis)
- Kidney impairment
- Gall bladder diseases
- Liver disorders
- Excessive use of alcohol
- Diabetes
Mode of Action of Gemfibrozil
How Does It Work?
Gemfibrozil reduces cholesterol levels by increasing the activity of an enzyme, which breaks down triglycerides.
Interactions of Gemfibrozil
Interactions with other medicines
- Colchicine (medicine for gout)
- Dasabuvir (treatment of Hepatitis C)
- Paclitaxel (treatment for cancer)
- Montelukast (treatment for asthma)
- Repaglinide, Pioglitazone (Anti-diabetic medication)
- Cholesterol-lowering drugs- ‘statins’
- Warfarin (blood thinner)
- Loperamide (treatment of diarrhea)
- Enzalutamide (medicine for prostate cancer)
- Selexipag (medicine for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension)
Interactions with food items
No interactions with food have been observed yet.
Dietary Restrictions of Gemfibrozil
Stick to a low-fat diet. Avoid oily food.
Dosage of Gemfibrozil
Overdose
Abdominal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, joint, and muscle pain are some of the effects of overdose. Call your doctor immediately in case you suspect an overdose.
Missed a Dose
Take the missed dose as early as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it’s already the time for next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to compensate for the missed dose.
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Ravi Kakarla
MBBS, MBA
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Ritu Budania
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before taking Gemfibrozil?
A: You must inform your doctor if you are suffering from any kidney, liver diseases or gall stones or if you are taking blood thinners (like Warfarin) if you are already taking any statin cholesterol medicine.
Q: What else should I keep in mind while I take Gemfibrozil?
A: Follow a healthy diet involving less fat and cholesterol, weight control program, and exercise along with Gemfibrozil for optimum benefits.
References
View All
- Ema.LOPID 300 mg capsules, hard.[Accessed 4 Sept.2019] (online)
- Webmd. GEMFIBROZIL.[Accessed4 Sept.2019] (online)
- Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Gemfibrozil. [Updated 2018 Oct 31].
- Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2006-. Gemfibrozil. [Updated 2018 Oct 31].
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