What is Lescol XL?
LescolXL is used in conjunction with diets to reduce blood levels of “bad” cholesterol (low density lipoprotein, or LDL), increase levels of “good” cholesterol (high density lipoprotein, or HDL), and lower triglycerides.Lescol XL helps to reduce the accumulation of plaque in blood vessels.Lescol XL can also be used to reduce the risk of heart complications for certain people who have coronary artery disease.Lescol XL can be used by adults and children over 10 years of age.Lescol XL can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Lescol XL
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat.Lescol XL may cause a rare condition whereby skeletal muscle tissue is broken down, resulting in kidney failure. If you experience unexplained pain or tenderness or if your urine is dark in colour, call your doctor immediately.
Call your doctor immediately if you:
- You may experience muscle weakness in the hips, shoulders, and neck.
- Having difficulty standing or climbing or lifting your arms;
- Signs of kidney disease include: little or no urinating; painful or difficult urination; swelling of your ankles or feet; feeling tired or short of breath;
- Liver problems: upper stomach pain, fatigue, dark urine, and clay-coloured stools. Jaundice.
Lescol XL can cause the following side effects:
- Muscle pain;
- Headache
- Stomach pain, nausea, or indigestion.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Contacting the FDA directly in regards to side effects is possible at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Similar/related drugs
atorvastatin, rosuvastatin, simvastatin, ezetimibe, lipitor, fenofibrate, and Crestor
Warnings
Lescol XL should not be taken if you suffer from liver disease or if your baby is breastfed.Do not use it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.Lescol XL can interact with other medications that may cause undesirable or harmful effects. Inform your doctor of all medications you are currently taking.
Before you take this drug
Lescol XL should not be taken if you have an allergy to it or if
- You have liver disease active.
- You are pregnant or nursing.
Lescol XL may harm an unborn child. To prevent pregnancy, use birth control. If you become pregnant, stop taking the medicine immediately and inform your doctor.Do not breastfeed while using this medicine.
Tell your doctor immediately of any of the following symptoms:
- Liver disease
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes;
- A thyroid disorder,
- If you consume more than two alcoholic drinks per day,
Lescol XL may cause a condition in which skeletal muscle tissue is broken down, resulting in kidney failure. This condition is more common in older adults, people with kidney disease, and those who have poorly controlled hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).Lescol XL should not be used by children under 10 years of age.
How to take Lescol XL?
Read and follow all instructions or guides included with your medication. Sometimes, your doctor will change the dose. You must take the medication exactly as prescribed.This medicine can be taken with or without food, but it should always be taken with water.Take the regular capsule or tablet at the same time each day.Extended-release tablets can be taken at any time.Do not forget to follow your doctor's instructions.Do not open, crush, chew, or break the pill. If you are having trouble swallowing a pill, tell your doctor.Medical tests will be required frequently.Your cholesterol levels may not improve for up to four weeks. Even if you are feeling well, continue to take this medication as prescribed. High cholesterol is usually asymptomatic.Lescol XL may be part of a comprehensive treatment programme, which could also include exercise, diet, and weight management. You should follow your doctor's advice.Store away from moisture, heat, and light at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if the dose is more than 12 hours past due, skip the missed dose. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
Lescol XL is less effective if you eat foods that are high in cholesterol or fat.Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can increase triglyceride and liver damage risks.
Interaction with other drug
Lescol XL can cause serious muscle problems if taken with certain drugs. If you take any of these drugs, your doctor may have to alter your treatment plan.
- Gemfibrozil, fenofibric acid, fenofibrate,
- Medicines that contain niacin
Inform your doctor of all the medications you are taking. Lescol xl can be affected by many drugs, including:
- Other cholesterol medications
- Antifungal or antibacterial medicine
- Diabetes medicine;
- Heart medication
- Seizure medication;
- Medicine to treat excessive stomach acid or ulcers.
Lescol XL can interact with many drugs. This list isn't complete. This includes over-the-counter and prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. List all of your medications with any healthcare professional who treats you.
