Why is this drug prescribed?

Baycol is used, along with a diet, to bring down high cholesterol levels when other measures have failed. Excess cholesterol in the bloodstream can lead to hardening of the arteries and heart disease. Baycol lowers both total cholesterol and LDL ("bad") cholesterol, while raising the HDL ("good") cholesterol that tends to clear the arteries.

Most important fact about this drug

Although you can't feel any symptoms of high cholesterol, it is important to take Baycol every day. The drug will be more effective if it is used along with a low-fat diet and plenty of exercise.

How should you take this medication?

Take Baycol once a day, in the evening, with or without food. Your cholesterol levels should begin to show improvement within 4 weeks.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Baycol tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Baycol.

• More common side effects may include:
  Joint pain, sinus problems, weakness

• Less common side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, chest pain, constipation, dizziness, gas, increased cough, leg pain, muscle pain, nausea

Why should this drug not be prescribed?

Do not take Baycol if you are pregnant or breastfeeding; it could harm the developing baby. Also avoid Baycol if you have a liver condition or the drug gives you an allergic reaction.

Special warnings about this medication

Contact your physician immediately if you experience any unexplained fever, feeling of unwellness, muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness. Baycol has been known to trigger a muscle-wasting condition that can also affect the kidneys. The drug should be temporarily discontinued if you develop any condition that might predispose you to kidney problems, including a blood infection, low blood pressure, major surgery, injury, a severe fluid disorder, or uncontrolled seizures.

Baycol occasionally causes liver problems as well. If you've had a liver disease in the past, or you regularly drink alcoholic beverages, make sure the doctor is aware of it. Because of Baycol's potential effect on the liver, the doctor will probably test your liver function regularly.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking this medication

If Baycol is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Baycol with any of the following:

Antifungal drugs such as Diflucan and Nizoral
Cimetidine (Tagamet)
Drugs that suppress the immune system, such as Sandimmune and Neoral
Erythromycin (E.E.S., E-Mycin, PCE, others)
Fibric acid derivatives such as Atromid-S
Nicotinic acid (Niacin)
Spironolactone (Aldactone)

Never combine Baycol with the cholesterol-lowering drug gemfibrozil (Lopid). This combination increases the danger of muscle wasting and kidney problems.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, stop taking Baycol immediately and inform your doctor. Baycol should not be used during pregnancy or while nursing.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

If your doctor prescribes both Baycol and cholestyramine (Questran), take the Questran first, followed by Baycol at least 2 hours later.

CHILDREN

Overdosage

Little is known about Baycol overdose. However, any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical treatment immediately.