Tricor is used with diet changes (restriction of cholesterol and
fat intake) to reduce the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides
(fatty substances) in your blood. Accumulation of cholesterol and
fats along the walls of your arteries (a process known as atherosclerosis)
decreases blood flow and, therefore, the oxygen supply to your heart,
brain, and other parts of your body. Lowering your blood level of
cholesterol and fats may help to prevent heart disease, angina (chest
pain), strokes, and heart attacks.
Tricor
is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist
for more information.
How
should Tricor be used?
Tricor comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken
once a day with a meal. Follow the directions on your
label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any
part you do not understand. Take Tricor exactly as directed. Do
not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed
by your doctor. Continue to take Tricor even if you feel well. Do
not stop taking Tricor without talking to your doctor.
tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Tricor or any
other drugs.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what
medications you are taking, especially anticoagulants (''blood thinners'')
such as warfarin (Coumadin); HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (cholesterol-lowering
agents) such as lovastatin (Mevacor), pravastatin (Pravachol), and
simvastatin (Zocor); cholestyramine (Questran); cyclosporine (Sandimmune,
Neoral); and vitamins or herbal products.
tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart disease, gallbladder
disease, or liver or kidney disease.
tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or
are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking Tricor, call
your doctor.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is
almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your
regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for
a missed one.
What
side effects can Tricor cause?
Although side effects from Tricor are not common, they can occur.
Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go
away:
gas
headache
stomach pain
upset stomach
dizziness or lightheadedness
constipation
fatigue
runny nose
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor
immediately:
Keep Tricor in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of
reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess
heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication
that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about
the proper disposal of your medication.
What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory.
Your doctor will order certain laboratory tests to check your response
to Tricor. Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist
any questions you have.