Brand names Bezalip, Bezalip-Mono
Used in the following combined preparations None
GENERAL INFORMATION
Bezafibrate belongs to a group of drugs that lower lipid levels in the blood.
Other drugs that are in the same chemical group (usually called fibrates) include clofibrate, ciprofibrate, fenofibrate, and gemfibrozil. Fibrates are particularly effective in decreasing blood levels of triglycerides. They also reduce levels of cholesterol. Raised levels of lipids (fats) in the blood are associated with atherosclerosis (deposition of fat in blood vessel walls). This can lead to coronary heart disease (for example, angina and heart attacks) and cerebro-vascular disease (for example, stroke). When taken with a diet low in saturated fats, there is good evidence that the chances of a heart attack are reduced.
INFORMATION FOR USERS
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Tablets.
Frequency and timing of doses
1-3 x daily with a little liquid after a meal.
Adult dosage range
400-600mg daily.
Onset of effect
A beneficial effect on blood fat levels may not be produced for some weeks, and
it takes months or years for fat deposits in the arteries to be reduced.
Treatment should be withdrawn if no adequate response is obtained within 3-4 months.
Duration of action
About 6-24 hours. This may vary according to the individual.
Diet advice
A low-fat diet will have been recommended. Follow the advice of your doctor.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 4 hours (and you
take it once daily), take a single dose now and skip the next. If you take 2-3
times daily, take the next dose as normal.
Stopping the drug
Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to be a cause for concern.
But if you notice unusual symptoms, notify your doctor.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
The most common adverse effects are those on the gastrointestinal tract, such as loss of appetite and nausea. These effects normally diminish as treatment continues.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Lipid-lowering drug
Overdose danger rating Low
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic No
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You have long-term liver or kidney problems.
You have a history of gallbladder disease.
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
Safety in pregnancy not established. Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
The drug may pass into the breast milk and may affect the baby. Discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
Not usually prescribed.
Over 60
No special problems expected.
Driving and hazardous work
No special problems.
Alcohol
No special problems.
INTERACTIONS
Anticoagulants
Bezafibrate may increase the effect of anticoagulants such as warfarin. Your doctor will reduce the dosage of your anticoagulant when starting bezafibrate.
Antidiabetic drugs Bezafibrate may interact with these drugs to lower blood sugar levels.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
There is a risk of liver damage when Bezafibrate is taken with an MAOi.
PROLONGED USE
No problems expected.
Monitoring Blood tests will be performed occasionally to monitor the effect of the drug on lipids in the blood.strong
