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Acipimox

  • Take these capsules with or just after food.
  • Follow carefully any lifestyle changes that have been suggested to you such as diet, stopping smoking and avoiding alcoholic drinks.
  • When starting treatment, flushing can be a side-effect. This is usually mild and only lasts for a day or so.

About acipimox

Type of medicineLipid-regulating drug
Used forTreatment of lipid disorders where there are high blood levels of triglycerides and/or cholesterol
Also calledOlbetam®
Available asCapsules

Acipimox is used to lower levels of cholesterol and other lipids (fats) in the blood. It works by preventing the release of fatty acids from fatty tissue.

Cholesterol is made naturally in the body and is absorbed from the food we eat. If levels of cholesterol are too high in the blood stream, it is deposited on the walls of blood vessels. Eventually this leads to a narrowing of the blood vessels and can even block them completely.

High levels of cholesterol do not make people feel ill but can cause problems if left untreated. This medicine may help prevent medical problems caused by cholesterol and fats building up in blood vessels, such as heart disease and other problems.

Before taking acipimox

Before taking acipimox make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have kidney problems.
  • If you have a stomach ulcer.
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take acipimox

  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
  • Take acipimox with or just after food. Swallow the capsules with a glass of water.
  • Try to take acipimox at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
  • If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
  • Many people are able to control their condition by carefully following their doctor's directions for a healthy diet and exercise. Medicine is prescribed when additional help is needed and acipimox is only effective when a healthy diet is also followed.
  • Even if you do not feel unwell, don't stop taking acipimox without checking with your doctor first. When you stop taking acipimox, your fat levels may increase again.
  • Smoking tends to increase cholesterol levels and puts a strain on the heart and circulatory system. If you are a smoker, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice on stopping smoking.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol while you are being treated with acipimox. Alcohol increases your cholesterol levels.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with acipimox.

Can acipimox cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Possible side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicineWhat can I do if I experience this
Flushing, feeling of heatThis usually disappears after the first day or so
Feeling sick, indigestion, stomach painEat little and often, and stick to simple foods
DiarrhoeaDrink plenty of water to replace any lost fluids
HeadacheAsk your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer. If the headache continues, speak with your doctor
Itching, rash, redness, tiredness, dry eyes, muscle and joint painIf troublesome, speak with your doctor

Important: If you experience swelling of the tongue, throat, face and/or neck, or difficulty in breathing, speak with your doctor immediately or go to your local accident and emergency department without delay.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store acipimox

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • Manufacturer's PIL, Olbetam®, Pharmacia Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Revised May 2007, accessed 22 May 2008.
  • British National Formulary; 55th Edition (March 2008) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2008DocID:
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dils2546		Last Reviewed:
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