Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Bezafibrate is used in conjunction with a proper diet to aid in lowering “bad” cholesterol and fats, such as LDL and triglycerides, while simultaneously increasing “good” cholesterol (HDL) levels in the blood. It operates by augmenting the natural substance (enzyme) responsible for breaking down fats in the bloodstream. Bezafibrate falls into a class of drugs known as “fibrates.” By diminishing “bad” cholesterol and triglycerides, this medication helps lower the risk of heart disease and serves as a preventive measure against strokes and heart attacks.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication orally with or after a meal, as instructed by your doctor, typically once daily.
Swallow the tablets whole, without crushing or chewing them, as breaking them may lead to the release of the entire drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.
If you are concurrently using certain medications to reduce cholesterol (such as bile acid-binding resins like cholestyramine or colestipol), take bezafibrate at least 2 hours before or after these drugs. These medications can bind to bezafibrate, hindering the full absorption of the drug by your body.
The dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to the treatment.
Consistently take this medication to derive maximum benefits. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Do not exceed the prescribed dose, and avoid using this drug more frequently or for a longer duration than advised. The reduction in your cholesterol/triglyceride levels will not occur more rapidly, and the risk of side effects may increase.
Continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Many individuals with elevated triglycerides/cholesterol levels do not experience noticeable symptoms.
Adhere to your doctor’s recommendations regarding diet and exercise. It may take up to 3 months to experience the full benefits of this medication.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- stomach upset
- stomach pain
- gas
- nausea
- itchy skin
- redness
- headache
- dizziness
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- nausea/vomiting that doesn’t stop
- loss of appetite
- stomach/abdominal pain
- yellowing eyes/skin
- dark urine
- muscle pain/tenderness/weakness (especially with fever or unusual tiredness)
- sore throat that doesn’t go away
- fever
- easy bruising/bleeding
- unusual tiredness
Caution
- Before taking bezafibrate, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, other “fibrates” (such as fenofibrate, gemfibrozil), or have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may cause allergic reactions or other issues.
- Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a history of liver disease (such as biliary cholangitis, hepatitis), gallbladder disease, kidney disease, or alcohol use.
- This medication should not be used during pregnancy as it may harm an unborn baby. Discuss the use of reliable forms of birth control (such as condoms, birth control pills) with your doctor. If you become pregnant or suspect pregnancy, inform your doctor promptly.
- It is unknown whether this medication passes into breast milk. Due to the potential risk to the infant, breastfeeding while using this drug is not recommended.
Form and Strength
Bezalip is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Bezalip tablet:
- 200 mg
- 400 mg
FAQ
Does Bezalip cause weight gain?
Bezalip isn’t known to cause weight gain. In clinical trials some patients were observed to lose weight.
How fast does Bezalip work?
It could take several weeks to as long as a few months to see a significant lowering of your cholesterol levels. Make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding exercise and diet.
Resources
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/bezalip-sr#google_vignette
- https://patient.info/medicine/bezafibrate-for-hyperlipidaemia-bezalip#nav-4
- https://www.rxlist.com/bezafibrate/generic-drug.htm
- https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB01393
- https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medications/bezafibrate-sustained-release-oral
