Gemfibrozil

( Lopid )

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Dec 15, 2022

Pros & Cons


Gemfibrozil Pros and Cons

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  • Gemfibrozil helps to lower the risk of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) that can occur in people with elevated triglycerides. 
  • It also helps to lower the risk of developing coronary heart disease and stroke by controlling cholesterol levels. 
  • Gemfibrozil may be a good alternative for people who cannot tolerate statin medications.
  • It is available in a low-cost generic form.

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  • Gemfibrozil can have interactions with other drugs, including statin drugs which increase cholesterol excretion and are also used to treat elevated cholesterol levels.
  • This medicine must be taken 30 minutes before the morning and evening meals, unlike some other cholesterol medicines that only need to be taken once a day.
  • Gemfibrozil may not be suitable for people with renal dysfunction, liver disease, or gallbladder disease.