Generic Gemfibrozil

Chemical Name: GEMFIBROZIL

Common uses

This medicine is a lipid-regulating agent used to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in your blood.

Before using

Do not take this medicine if you are also taking repaglinide because very low blood sugar may occur. If you are currently taking repaglinide, tell your doctor or pharmacist before starting this medicine. Use caution if the following medicines are combined with gemfibrozil because serious side effects such as muscle injury (myopathy) infrequently could occur: "statins" (e.g., lovastatin, atorvastatin) or high-dose niacin (1 gram or more per day).

Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking medicine for diabetes. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. Use of this medicine is not recommended if you have a history of liver conditions. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Take this medicine 30 minutes before morning and evening meals unless directed otherwise by your doctor. Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat and light.

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

Do not stop taking this medicine without first discussing it with your doctor. Keep all doctor and laboratory appointments while you are taking this medicine. This medicine may cause blurred vision or dizziness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to this medicine.

Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. For women: if you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. It is unknown if this medicine is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine.

Possible side effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include dizziness, headache, abdominal pain, nausea, or gas. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness (especially if associated with fever and a general feeling of discomfort); stomach pain; diarrhea; vomiting; or skin rash. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Additional information

Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions.

Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.