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.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Cholesterol - Learn about cholesterol and how to lower LDL cholesterol. Read in-depth cholesterol information on a low cholesterol diet, normal ratio (levels), treatment for high cholesterol and more.
- High Cholesterol: Frequently Asked Questions - Read about high cholesterol and frequently asked questions about this conditions. Statins, niacin, bile acid sequestrants, and fibrates are drugs used to lower cholesterol blood levels.
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