bezafibrate-oral

GENERIC NAME: BEZAFIBRATE - ORAL (bezz-uh-FIBE-rate)

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used along with a diet and an exercise program to treat high cholesterol levels.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth exactly as prescribed with or just after meals. Do not take this more often or increase the dose without your doctor's approval. Your cholesterol level will not lower faster but the risk of side effects will be increased.
SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset, stomach pain, gas, or nausea may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. Itchy skin, redness, headache, and dizziness have also been reported. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: muscle aches/pains, muscle weakness, chest pain, unusual weakness, skin rash, vomiting. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: pre-existing kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, any allergies. Limit intake of alcohol while taking this medication. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breast-feeding. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Use caution if the following drugs are combined with bezafibrate because serious side effects such as muscle injury (myopathy) infrequently could occur: "statins" (e.g., lovastatin, atorvastatin), high-dose niacin (1 gram or more per day). Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: blood thinners, cyclosporine, antidepressants, estrogen, birth control pills, cholestyramine anticholesterol. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.
NOTES: This medication is used only after diet therapy has been tried. This is not a substitute for diet. A low-fat, low cholesterol diet must be maintained while taking this medication. Lab tests will be done routinely while taking this medication to monitor its effects and prevent side effects.