Bezafibrate (patient information)

Associate Editor:

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.

MISSED DOSE
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

STORAGE
Store this medication at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.

===The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist===