Clofibrate (patient information)

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

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AVAILABLE TRADE NAMES

1. In the U.S.

• Abitrate
• Atromid-S

2. In Canada

• Atromid-S
• Claripex
• Novofibrate

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

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking clofibrate and seek emergency medical attention:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);

• chest pain or an irregular heart beat;

• severe stomach pain with nausea and vomiting;

• fever and chills, a sore throat, or a flu-like feeling;

• blood in your urine or a decrease in urination;

• swelling of your ankles or legs;

• muscle cramps, muscle weakness, muscle aches, or muscle pain;

• joint pain; or

• sudden weight gain.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take clofibrate and talk to your doctor if you experience

• blnoating or flatulence;

• nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;

• headache;

• dizziness or drowsiness; or

• impotence.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

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.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Clofibrate may increase the effects of the following drugs, which could lead to dangerous side effects:

• anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as warfarin (Coumadin); and

• insulin or oral medications used to treat diabetes such as glipizide (Glucotrol), glyburide (Micronase, Diabeta, Glynase), tolbutamide (Orinase) or tolazamide (Tolinase).

Clofibrate is generally not recommended for use with other cholesterol-lowering drugs such as lovastatin (Mevacor), simvastatin (Zocor), pravastatin (Pravachol), atorvastatin (Lipitor), and gemfibrozil (Lopid). A serious reaction involving the muscles and kidneys may occur if these drugs are taken together and can result in death.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with clofibrate. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

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.

NOTES

For best results, this medication should be used along with a low fat, low cholesterol diet. Follow any dietary guidelines recommended by your doctor or dietician. Periodic laboratory tests will be done to monitor the effectiveness of this medication.

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 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.

WHAT DOES MY MEDICATION LOOK LIKE?

Clofibrate is available with a prescription under the brand name Atromid-S. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

• Atromid-S 500 mg--red, hard-gelatin capsules

• Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.