Clofibrate capsules

What are clofibrate capsules?

CLOFIBRATE (Atromid-S®) can help prevent cholesterol clogging blood vessels. It lowers blood fats and cholesterol for patients who are at risk of getting heart disease or a stroke. It is only for patients whose cholesterol level is not controlled by diet. It is not a cure.

NOTE: This drug is discontinued in the US.

What should my health care professional know before I take clofibrate?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• heart disease

• gall stones

• liver disease

• peptic ulcers

• kidney disease

• under-active thyroid

• an unusual or allergic reaction to clofibrate, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take clofibrate capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the capsules with a drink of water. To help prevent stomach upset, take clofibrate with or just after food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with clofibrate?

• medicines used to treat diabetes

• medicines used to lower cholesterol, like atorvastatin, cerivastatin, fluvastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin or simvastatin

• probenecid

• rifampin

• ursodiol

• warfarin

• red yeast rice

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking clofibrate?

Clofibrate will not cure your condition, but taken regularly it will help keep down your cholesterol level. Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Do not stop taking your clofibrate, except on your prescriber's advice.

Clofibrate is only part of a total cholesterol-lowering program. Your physician or dietician can suggest a low-cholesterol and low-fat diet that will reduce your risk of getting heart and blood vessel disease. Avoid alcohol and smoking, and keep a proper exercise schedule.

What side effects may I notice from taking clofibrate?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:

• blood in urine

• chest pain

• cough or hoarseness

• decrease in the amount of urine passed

• fever or chills

• lower back or side pain

• nausea, vomiting

• pain or difficulty passing urine

• stomach pain

• swelling of the feet or lower legs

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea

• gas or heartburn

• hair loss, or dry brittle hair

• headache

• increased appetite

• muscle aches

• nausea

• skin rash

• sores in and around the mouth

• sexual difficulties (decreased sexual desire or ability)

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature, approximately 25 degrees C (77 degrees F); do not freeze. Store away from heat and light, in a cool, dry place. Moisture and humidity can damage clofibrate. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.