Brand Name
Apo-Gemfibrozil
Common Name
gemfibrozil
In this drug factsheet:
DIN (Drug Identification Number)| 01979574 | APO-GEMFIBROZIL 300MG USP CAPSULE |
| 01979582 | APO-GEMFIBROZIL 600MG TABLET |
How does this medication work? What will it do for me?
Gemfibrozil belongs to the class of medications known as fibrates. It
is used to treat high cholesterol.
It works by blocking the production of certain types of cholesterol, especially
the type known as triglycerides. Gemfibrozil is used in combination with
a healthy diet and exercise to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Reduction
of cholesterol levels has been shown to reduce the risks associated with heart
disease, such as heart attack.
Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones
listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking
this medication, contact your doctor.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended adult dose of gemfibrozil is 600 mg twice daily 30
minutes before the morning and evening meals. The maximum daily recommended
dose of gemfibrozil is 1500 mg.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as
body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor
has recommended a dose different from the ones above, do not change the
way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is very important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
If you forget a dose of this medication take it as soon as you remember. If
it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with
your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
300 mg
Each No. 0, maroon and white capsule identified "APO 300", contains
gemfibrozil 300 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, croscarmellose
sodium, magnesium stearate, methylcellulose and talc; shell: D&C Red No. 28,
FD&C Blue No. 1, FD&C Red No. 40, gelatin, titanium dioxide and grey ink (FD&C
Blue No. 1, FD&C Blue No. 2, FD&C Red No. 40, FD&C Yellow No. 6, lecithin (soya),
methanol, n-butyl alcohol, SDA 3A alcohol, shellac glaze-45% in SD-45 alcohol,
simethicone, titanium dioxide and 2-ethoxyethanol).
600 mg
Each white, oval, biconvex, film-coated tablet, identified "APO 600"
on one side and plain on the other, contains gemfibrozil 600 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate,
methylcellulose; film-coating: carnauba wax, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl
methylcellulose, polyethylene glycol and titanium dioxide.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Gemfibrozil should not be taken by anyone who:
- has severe liver disease, kidney
disease, or gallbladder disease
- is allergic to gemfibrozil or any of the ingredients of the medication
- is allergic to fenofibrate
or any other of the class of "fibrates" (e.g., clofibrate, bezafibrate)
- is pregnant
- is breast-feeding
- has a disorder known as Type 1 hyperlipoproteinemia
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