GENERIC NAME: CLOFIBRATE - ORAL (klo-FYE-brate, KLO-fib-rate)
BRAND NAME(S): Atromid-S
Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
WARNING: Because of the possibility of undesirable side effects due to clofibrate use, clofibrate should be used only in certain patients after other treatments (including non-drug treatment) have failed to lower cholesterol. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop any of the following symptoms: sharp pains in abdomen/stomach area, irregular heartbeat, chest pain, or any unusual growths (tumors).
USES: This medication is used to reduce high cholesterol blood levels.
HOW TO USE: This medication may be taken with food if stomach upset occurs. Take this medication as directed. Do not increase your dose or stop taking this without first consulting your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset, nausea, loose stools, bloating, gas, dizziness, drowsiness or headache may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. Other side effects reported include mouth sores, dry or itchy skin, brittle hair, change in sex drive or decreased sexual function or muscle aches. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain, an irregular heartbeat, severe stomach pains, vomiting, skin rash, breathing trouble, decreased urine output, blood in the urine, swelling of the feet or ankles, fever, chills, sore throat, weight gain, muscle aches/pain/weakness. Long-term use of this medication may increase your risk of developing gallstones. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, liver disease, gallbladder disease or gallstones, heart disease, ulcers, any allergies. The manufacturer of this drug states that clofibrate must not be used during pregnancy. Women of child-bearing age must use reliable birth control methods while using this medication. Further, that if a pregnancy is planned, clofibrate should be stopped several months before becoming pregnant. This medication passes into breast milk and must not be used while breast-feeding.
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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