These comments are made for the purpose of discussion and should NOT be used as recommendations for or against therapies or other treatments. An individual patient is always advised to consult their own physician.
Lopid – Possible Allergic Reaction [posted 8/14/98]
Question: My husband, age 53, was taken off hydrochlorothiazide in September. His cholesterol and triglycerides were very good and his blood pressure (for which he took Catapres) was very good. The internist also took him off Lopid. However, after he experienced stomach problems, the doctor said he should taper off the Lopid. Very soon after this, he broke out in a terrible
skin condition, which 2 dermatologists were certain was psoriasis. After 3 months of agony, pain, suffering, we went to a third dermatologist who was very certain it was not psoriasis, but
possibly a drug reaction/allergy most likely to being taken off the hydrodriurel. A biopsy confirmed he did not have psoriasis. The doctor has put him on prednisone for 2 weeks, then taper
down, with hopes this will heal him. His body is a mess – his head/face/ears/neck are all red. The rest of his body (almost entire body) is also red/splotchy.
If anyone has ever heard of any type of allergic reaction from any of these medications, we would appreciate their input.
Answer: Haven’t seen this problem – I’d check with the company for this since it is clearly unusual. Parke-Davis: 800-223-0432.
Lopid side effects
Question: I have been on Lopid for cholesterol management for about 12 years and I am 50 years old. What are the long term the side affects of this drug? Are impotency and/or gas known to be some of the side affects?
Answer: Lopid (gemfibrozil) is one of several drugs used to lower cholesterol. It is very effective
in moderate elevations of cholesterol and also lowers triglycerides. It was extensively studied
in Finland and clearly lowers the risk of heart attack and stroke. Side effects are several.
Initially, the limiting factor in most patients is gas and abdominal complaints. This will
persist as long as the drug is taken. Long term, liver, kidney and bone marrow toxicity have
been reported, although are uncommon. Monitoring of blood counts, liver and kidney function
should be done regularly and the drug discontinued with changes in any of these organ
systems.
