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Lopid (Gemfibrozil) Buyer and Patient Handbook in South Africa

What is Lopid?

Lopid is a lipid-lowering medication belonging to the fibrate class, used primarily to reduce high triglyceride levels and increase HDL-cholesterol. It is indicated for patients with severe hypertriglyceridaemia, mixed dyslipidaemia, or those at risk of pancreatitis due to elevated triglycerides. The product is approved by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) and is supplied as a 300 mg oral pill.

Who Should Use Lopid?

• Adults with fasting triglycerides ≥ 500 mg/dL (≈5.6 mmol/L)
• Patients with mixed dyslipidaemia not adequately controlled by diet alone
• Individuals who have had a prior episode of triglyceride-related pancreatitis
• Those whose physicians have determined that fibrate therapy is appropriate

How Does It Work?

Lopid activates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPAR-α), a nuclear receptor that increases the oxidation of fatty acids in the liver and muscle. This leads to lower production of triglyceride-rich VLDL particles and a modest rise in HDL-cholesterol. Think of it as turning up the “engine” that burns excess fat, helping the bloodstream stay clear.

Why Choose Lopid?

• Proven efficacy in lowering triglycerides quickly, often within a few weeks.
• Available as a single-dose tablet, simplifying daily routines.
• Generic versions of gemfibrozil are also available, offering cost-effective alternatives for patients on a budget.

Off-label use should only be considered after discussion with a qualified healthcare professional.

Dosage, Administration, Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations

Recommended Dosage

The usual adult dose is 300 mg taken twice daily (morning and evening) with meals.

How to Take

• Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
• Take each dose after a main meal to improve tolerability and absorption.

Missed Dose

If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember, provided it is at least 6 hours before the next scheduled dose. Do not double-dose.

Overdose

In case of suspected overdose, seek emergency medical care promptly. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal Pain, or muscle weakness.

Special Populations

• Elderly: May require closer monitoring of renal function.
• Renal impairment: Dose reduction or avoidance is recommended if creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min.
• Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Use only if clearly needed; discuss risks with a healthcare provider.

Lifestyle & Diet

• Avoid grapefruit juice and large amounts of alcohol, as they can increase drug levels.
• Maintain a low-fat, low-sugar diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., fatty fish, flaxseed).
• Regular physical activity (≥150 minutes moderate exercise per week) supports lipid control.

Precautions and Warnings

• Monitor liver enzymes and kidney function before starting therapy and periodically thereafter.
• Use with caution in patients with a history of gallstones or biliary disease.
• Report any unexplained muscle pain, weakness, or dark urine-possible signs of Myopathy.

Drug Interactions

Potential Side Effects

Common Side Effects

• Gastro-intestinal upset (nausea, dyspepsia)
• Headache
• Mild rash

Less Common Side Effects

• Elevated liver enzymes
• Dizziness
• Diarrhoea

Serious Side Effects

• Myopathy or rhabdomyolysis (muscle pain, weakness, dark urine) - seek immediate medical attention.
• Severe liver injury (jaundice, Fatigue, abdominal pain) - contact a healthcare professional promptly.

Who Should Avoid This Medication?

• Individuals with active liver disease or persistent elevation of transaminases.
• Patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min).
• Those with known hypersensitivity to gemfibrozil or any component of the tablet.

Storage Instructions

• Keep the bottle tightly closed at room temperature (15-30 °C).
• Store away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Lopid Alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly will Lopid lower my triglycerides?

Most patients see a 15-30 % reduction within 2-4 weeks, with maximal effect by 8-12 weeks.

Can I take Lopid with my statin?

Yes, but the combination increases the risk of muscle toxicity; use the lowest effective statin dose and have your doctor monitor muscle enzymes.

Will Lopid affect my blood sugar?

Gemfibrozil has minimal impact on glucose levels, but regular monitoring is advised for diabetic patients.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while on Lopid?

Alcohol can raise triglyceride levels and increase liver strain, so limit intake to occasional, moderate amounts.

Can I take Lopid if I have a mild liver enzyme elevation?

Mild, transient elevations may be monitored, but significant or progressive rises require dosage adjustment or discontinuation.

What should I do if I develop a rash?

Stop the medication and consult a healthcare professional promptly; it may be an allergic reaction.

Do I need to avoid certain foods?

Yes, grapefruit juice and large amounts of high-fat meals can affect drug absorption and metabolism.

Is Lopid safe for long-term use?

When monitored regularly for liver and kidney function, long-term therapy is generally safe for chronic lipid control.

How does Lopid differ from generic gemfibrozil?

The active ingredient is identical; brand tablets may have different inactive ingredients that affect tolerability for some patients.

Can I stop Lopid abruptly?

Discontinuation is usually safe, but inform your clinician to arrange appropriate lipid monitoring and alternative therapy if needed.

Glossary

• Triglycerides: A type of fat in the blood; high levels increase the risk of pancreatitis and cardiovascular disease.
• HDL-cholesterol: “Good” cholesterol that helps remove excess cholesterol from arteries.
• PPAR-α: A protein that regulates genes involved in fat metabolism, targeted by fibrates.
• Myopathy: Muscle disease or damage, potentially leading to weakness and pain.
• Biliary disease: Disorders of the gallbladder or bile ducts that can affect drug metabolism.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Lopid may be used off-label only under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. Our online pharmacy platform offers convenient access to approved medicines, but responsibility for safe use rests with the patient.