Bezafibrate
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
NA
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Summary
Bezafibrate is used to treat high cholesterol and triglycerides, which are fats in the blood. It helps lower these levels, reducing the risk of heart disease, which refers to conditions affecting the heart's function.
Bezafibrate works by increasing the breakdown of fats in the blood. It belongs to a class of drugs called fibrates, which help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, improving heart health.
The usual starting dose of bezafibrate for adults is 200 mg taken three times a day with meals. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response and any side effects.
Common side effects of bezafibrate include stomach upset, nausea, and diarrhea, which are usually mild. Serious side effects like liver problems or muscle pain are rare but require immediate medical attention.
Bezafibrate can affect liver function, so regular liver tests are needed. It may increase the risk of muscle problems, especially with statins. Avoid if you have severe liver or kidney issues, gallbladder disease, or allergies to it.
Indications and Purpose
How does bezafibrate work?
Bezafibrate works by increasing the breakdown of fats in the blood. It belongs to a class of drugs called fibrates, which help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Think of it like a cleaner that helps remove excess fat from your blood vessels, improving your lipid profile. This helps reduce the risk of heart disease and improves overall heart health.
Is bezafibrate effective?
Bezafibrate is effective in lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. It helps reduce the risk of heart disease by improving lipid profiles. Clinical studies show that bezafibrate significantly lowers triglycerides and increases HDL, which is good cholesterol. This makes it a valuable treatment for people with high cholesterol or triglycerides.
What is bezafibrate?
Bezafibrate is a medication used to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. It belongs to a class of drugs called fibrates, which work by increasing the breakdown of fats in the blood. Bezafibrate is primarily used to treat high cholesterol and triglycerides, reducing the risk of heart disease. It can be used alone or with other therapies to improve lipid profiles.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take bezafibrate?
Bezafibrate is usually a long-term medication for managing high cholesterol and triglycerides. You'll typically take it every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your cholesterol levels to rise. How long you'll need this medication depends on your body's response and any side effects you experience. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your bezafibrate treatment.
How do I dispose of bezafibrate?
If you can, bring unused bezafibrate to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of it properly to prevent harm to people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw it in the trash at home. Mix it with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal it in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take bezafibrate?
Take bezafibrate as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily. It's best to take it with food to help your body absorb it better. Do not crush or chew the tablets. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never take two doses at once. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions.
How long does it take for bezafibrate to start working?
Bezafibrate starts working in your body shortly after you take it, but it may take several weeks to see significant changes in your cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The full therapeutic effect can take up to two months. How quickly it works can depend on your overall health and adherence to the medication. Take it exactly as prescribed for the best results.
How should I store bezafibrate?
Store bezafibrate at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Don't store it in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture could affect its effectiveness. Always store bezafibrate out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of bezafibrate?
The usual starting dose of bezafibrate for adults is 200 mg taken three times a day with meals. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response and any side effects. The maximum recommended dose is 600 mg per day. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Warnings and Precautions
Can bezafibrate be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Bezafibrate is not recommended while breastfeeding. There's limited information on whether it passes into human breast milk. Animal studies suggest it might, raising concerns about potential effects on the baby. If you're taking bezafibrate and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely.
Can bezafibrate be taken safely while pregnant?
Bezafibrate is not recommended during pregnancy due to limited evidence on its safety. Animal studies suggest potential risks, but human data is lacking. Uncontrolled cholesterol levels during pregnancy can cause complications. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your cholesterol during this time.
Can I take bezafibrate with other prescription drugs?
Bezafibrate can interact with statins, increasing the risk of muscle problems. It may also interact with anticoagulants, which are blood thinners, affecting their effectiveness. Always inform your doctor about all medications you're taking to avoid potential interactions. Your doctor can help manage any interactions and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Does bezafibrate have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of bezafibrate include stomach upset, nausea, and diarrhea. These effects are usually mild. Serious side effects like liver problems or muscle pain are rare but require immediate medical attention. Always inform your doctor about any new or worsening symptoms while taking bezafibrate.
Does bezafibrate have any safety warnings?
Bezafibrate has important safety warnings. It can affect liver function, so regular liver tests are needed. It may also increase the risk of muscle problems, especially when taken with statins. If you experience muscle pain, weakness, or dark urine, contact your doctor immediately. Not adhering to these warnings can lead to serious health issues.
Is bezafibrate addictive?
Bezafibrate is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Bezafibrate works by affecting lipid levels in your blood and doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to take more than prescribed.
Is bezafibrate safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals are more vulnerable to medication side effects due to age-related changes in the body. Bezafibrate is generally safe for the elderly, but they may have a higher risk of muscle problems and liver issues. Regular monitoring and dose adjustments may be necessary. Always consult your doctor about the risks and benefits of bezafibrate for elderly patients.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking bezafibrate?
It's best to limit alcohol while taking bezafibrate. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver problems, which bezafibrate can also affect. Drinking alcohol may also worsen side effects like stomach upset. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation and watch for warning signs like nausea or abdominal pain. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking bezafibrate.
Is it safe to exercise while taking bezafibrate?
You can exercise while taking bezafibrate, but be aware of potential muscle-related side effects. Bezafibrate can increase the risk of muscle pain or weakness, especially if taken with statins. If you experience muscle symptoms during exercise, stop and rest. Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activities if you notice any unusual symptoms. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns.
Is it safe to stop bezafibrate?
Bezafibrate is usually used long-term for managing cholesterol levels. Stopping it suddenly can cause your cholesterol levels to rise, increasing the risk of heart disease. Always talk with your doctor before stopping bezafibrate. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control.
What are the most common side effects of bezafibrate?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of bezafibrate include stomach upset, nausea, and diarrhea. These effects are usually mild and may go away on their own. If you notice new symptoms after starting bezafibrate, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.
Who should avoid taking bezafibrate?
Don't take bezafibrate if you have severe liver or kidney problems, gallbladder disease, or are allergic to it. These are absolute contraindications due to severe risks. Use caution if you have a history of muscle problems or are taking statins, as this increases the risk of muscle-related side effects. Always consult your doctor about these concerns.
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