DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Probucol

March 21, 2017

Probucol tablets

What are probucol tablets?

PROBUCOL (Lorelco®) was used to block the body's ability to make cholesterol. This drug lowered blood fats and cholesterol for patients who are at risk of getting heart disease or a stroke.

NOTE: This drug is discontinued in the United States.

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

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

  • gallbladder disease

  • fainting spells

  • heart problems

  • liver disease

  • low levels of blood potassium or magnesium

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

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take probucol tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. It is best to take probucol with food, take with morning and evening meals if you take the tablets twice a day. 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 probucol?

  • astemizole

  • beta-blockers, often used for high blood pressure or heart problems

  • clofibrate

  • cyclosporine

  • digoxin

  • medicines to control heart rhythm

  • medicines for mental depression

  • medicines for mental problems and psychotic disturbances

  • terfenadine

  • ursodiol

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 probucol?

Probucol 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 probucol, except on your prescriber's advice.

Probucol 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.

If you are going to have surgery tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking probucol.

You may get dizzy; until you know how probucol affects you, do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness. To reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol can make you more dizzy, increase flushing and rapid heartbeats; avoid alcoholic drinks.

What side effects may I notice from taking probucol?

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

  • chest pain

  • fainting spells

  • fast or irregular heartbeats (palpitations)

  • fever, chills

  • muscle aches or cramps

  • unusual bleeding or bruising

  • unusual tiredness or weakness

  • unusual swelling of the face, tongue, lips, hands or feet

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

  • diarrhea

  • dizziness

  • headache

  • nausea, vomiting

  • upset stomach, gas, or heartburn

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 between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Updated:  

March 21, 2017

Sources:  

U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert