GENERIC NAME: DHA/EPA/POLICOSANOL/VITAMIN B12/FOLIC ACID/VITAMIN B6 - ORAL (DHA/EPA/poly-co-SAN-ol/B12/foe-lick acid/B6)
BRAND NAME(S): Vanachol
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used along with a proper diet to help lower cholesterol and fats (triglycerides) in the blood. Reducing cholesterol and triglycerides help prevent strokes and heart attacks.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily at bedtime, or as directed by your doctor. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. It may take up to several weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high cholesterol or triglycerides do not feel sick.
SIDE EFFECTS: Diarrhea, bloating, nausea, nervousness, headache, stomach upset, unpleasant taste, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: easy bruising or bleeding. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to octacosanol, fish oils; or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: blood clotting/bleeding problems, vitamin B-12 deficiency (pernicious anemia), diabetes, certain hereditary conditions (e.g., optic nerve atrophy, familial adenomatous polyposis). Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are using this medication. It is recommended that you stop taking this medication two weeks prior to surgery. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. It should not be used immediately before or after delivery. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before 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.
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