Indications 

Lopid is a prescription medicine used along with a proper diet to help lower the amount of low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad cholesterol”) and triglycerides (fatty acids) in the blood in individuals with pancreatitis. 

Lopid is also prescribed to reduce the likelihood of stroke, heart attack, or other cardiovascular complications in patients with low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL or “good cholesterol”) and elevated LDL and triglycerides that have not responded to alternative therapies. 

Belonging to the class of lipid-regulating medications called fibrates, Lopid decreases the amount of fat produced by the liver. 

Uses and Dosage 

Prior to taking Lopid and with every prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance if you have any inquiries or concerns. 

The appropriate dosage of Lopid is determined by the patient’s medical condition and treatment response. 

Typically, this medication is taken twice a day, 30 minutes before the morning and evening meals. For optimal results, take it regularly, exactly how it is prescribed, around the same times daily.  

Refrain from altering dosage and frequency of intake without your doctor’s advice and continue to follow your doctor’s advice about diet and exercise. 

Continue taking this medication, even if you are feeling well. Many individuals with high cholesterol or triglyceride levels do not experience noticeable symptoms. Consult your doctor before discontinuing treatment. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Lopid. Tell your doctor promptly if any of these symptoms persist or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Stomach pain, indigestion, or diarrhea 
• Numbness or tingling sensation 
• Dizziness or drowsiness 
• Blurred vision 
• Muscle or joint pain 
• Loss of interest in sex or impotence 

Serious Side Effects 

• Sharp pain in the upper stomach, particularly after eating 
• Jaundice, indicated by yellowing of the skin or eyes 
• Pain or burning sensation during urination 
• Blurred vision, eye pain, or seeing halos around lights 
• Low blood cell counts, characterized by: 
  • Pale skin 
  • Easy bruising 
  • Abnormal bleeding 
  • Unusual fatigue 
  • Dizziness 
  • Shortness of breath 
  • Cold extremities 

Call your doctor at once if you experience any of the severe side effects above. 

Rarely, Lopid can induce a condition causing the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, resulting in kidney failure. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially when accompanied by fever, unusual fatigue, and dark-colored urine. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Lopid may occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as: 

• Rash 
• Itching 
• Swelling, particularly on the face, throat, or tongue  
• Severe dizziness 
• Difficulty breathing 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Lopid. If any unlisted effects occur, notify your doctor promptly. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Lopid, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to: 

• Gemfibrozil 
• Other “fibrates” (e.g., fenofibrate) 
• Other medications 
• Any ingredients present in Lopid tablets 

To ensure Lopid is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Liver disease (e.g., biliary cholangitis or hepatitis) 
• Gallbladder disease 
• Kidney disease 
• Alcohol use 

Inform all healthcare providers of your current use of prescription and non-prescription drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal products to mitigate the risk of rig interactions with Lopid. 

Certain products that may interact with Lopid include: 

• Asunaprevir 
• “Blood thinners” (e.g., warfarin) 
• Colchicine 
• Repaglinide 
• “Statin” drugs (e.g., atorvastatin, lovastatin, simvastatin) 

Lopid should be taken at least 1 hour before or 4-6 hours after bile acid-binding resins like cholestyramine or colestipol to avoid any interaction that may hinder its complete absorption. 

Lopid can potentially decrease the elimination of other drugs from your system, influencing their effectiveness. Examples of affected medications include: 

• Elagolix 
• Irinotecan 
• Pioglitazone 
• Selexipag 
• Specific combination product used for chronic hepatitis C treatment (ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir/dasabuvir), among others 

The use of Lopid during pregnancy should only be considered if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. Consult your doctor before taking this medication. 

Lopid’s impact on breast milk is uncertain. To avoid endangering the infant, refrain from breastfeeding while taking this medication. Seek medical advice before nursing.