Sign inBefore taking bezafibrate
Before taking bezafibrate make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you have liver, kidney or gall bladder problems.
- If you have hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid).
- 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 bezafibrate
- Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
- Take bezafibrate exactly as directed by your doctor.
- Bezafibrate should be taken with or immediately after a meal.
- If you have been supplied with the modified-release form of bezafibrate, it should be swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed.
- Try to take bezafibrate 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, in which case skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up.
Getting the most from your treatment
- Even if you do not feel unwell, do not stop taking bezafibrate without checking with your doctor first. Stopping will cause your lipid levels to increase again.
- If you are a smoker, ask your doctor or pharmacist about how to stop. Smoking tends to increase your lipid levels.
- Avoid drinking too much alcohol while you are being treated with bezafibrate as alcohol can also increase your lipid levels.
- Follow carefully any advice you have been given about a healthy diet and exercise.
- If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment you are taking bezafibrate.
- Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
- If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with bezafibrate.
Can bezafibrate cause problems?
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.
| Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine | What can I do if I experience this |
| Feeling sick or bloated | Eat little and often. Stick to simple foods |
| Loss of appetite | Try to eat healthy and appetising food |
If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store bezafibrate
- Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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References
- Manufacturer's PIL, Bezafibrate 200 mg Tablets, Actavis UK Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated August 2009, accessed February 2010.
- Manufacturer's PIL, Zimbacol® XL tablets, Archimedes Pharma UK Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated August 2007, accessed February 2010.
- British National Formulary; 58th Edition (September 2009) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.