Tricor

How should you take Tricor?

Tricor should be taken with meals. If you've also been prescribed a cholesterol-lowering drug such as Questran or Colestid, take Tricor at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after the other drug to make sure Tricor is properly absorbed.

--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. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature and protect 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 Tricor.

• More common side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, back pain, headache, respiratory disorders

Why should Tricor not be prescribed?

You should not take Tricor if you have liver or gallbladder disease, or severe kidney problems. You'll also have to avoid Tricor if it gives you an allergic reaction.

Special warnings about Tricor

Tricor has the potential to cause gallstones. Your doctor will discontinue the drug if gallstones develop.

Tricor may also affect liver function. Your doctor should perform periodic blood tests to monitor the health of your liver.

Tricor has not been tested in children.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Tricor

If Tricor 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 Tricor with the following:

Blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin)
The cholesterol-lowering drugs Colestid and Questran
Cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral)
"Statins" (the cholesterol-lowering drugs Altocor, Lescol, Lipitor, Mevacor, Pravachol, and Zocor)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Pregnancy tests have not been conducted in humans, but high doses of Tricor have proven harmful in animal studies. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.

Tricor should not be used in nursing mothers. If this drug is essential to your health, your doctor will advise you to stop nursing your baby.