LOMITAPIDE - ORAL
PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (loe-MI-ta-pide)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Juxtapid
GENERIC NAME(S): lomitapide mesylate
Uses
USES: This medication is used along with a low-fat diet and other treatments for a certain inherited condition that causes very high cholesterol levels (homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia). Very high cholesterol levels increase your risk of developing heart and blood vessel disease. Lomitapide works by decreasing your body's production of cholesterol.
How to use LOMITAPIDE - ORAL
HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking lomitapide and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Take this medication by mouth without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily with a glass of water, at least 2 hours after the evening meal. Swallow the capsules whole. Do not open, crush, dissolve, or chew the capsules. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this medication unless your doctor or pharmacist says you may do so safely. Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Your doctor may direct you to also take dietary supplements (such as vitamin E, linoleic acid, DHA/EPA) while you are taking this medication. Ask your doctor for details. Since this drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication or breathe the dust from the capsules.
Side Effects
Precautions
Interactions
Overdose
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Faq for LOMITAPIDE - ORAL
Lomitapide is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called microsomal triglyceride transfer protein inhibitors. It is used to treat a rare genetic condition called homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH) that causes extremely high levels of cholesterol in the blood.
Lomitapide works by reducing the production of LDL cholesterol, also known as "bad cholesterol," in the liver. It inhibits the microsomal triglyceride transfer protein, which is involved in the assembly and secretion of LDL particles. By decreasing LDL cholesterol levels, lomitapide helps to lower the risk of cardiovascular events associated with HoFH.
Lomitapide is available in capsule form and should be taken orally once daily with a low-fat meal. It is crucial to follow a low-fat diet while taking this medication to further reduce the risk of liver problems. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage based on your specific condition.
Common side effects of lomitapide may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, indigestion, bloating, and gas. These side effects usually improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if they persist or become bothersome, it is essential to inform your doctor.
Yes, lomitapide can cause serious liver problems. It may increase liver enzyme levels and cause liver fat accumulation, which can lead to liver inflammation or failure. Regular liver function tests are necessary to monitor liver health during treatment. Other serious side effects may include gastrointestinal problems, vitamin deficiency, and pregnancy complications.
No, lomitapide is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the risk of serious harm to the fetus. It is also not recommended while breastfeeding because it may pass into breast milk and cause harm to the nursing infant. Effective contraception should be used during treatment with lomitapide to prevent pregnancy.
Lomitapide is an oral medication used to treat a certain genetic disorder called homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH), which causes high levels of cholesterol in the blood.
Lomitapide works by inhibiting the production of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also known as the "bad" cholesterol, in the liver. It reduces the amount of LDL cholesterol that is released into the bloodstream.
Common side effects of Lomitapide may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, indigestion, fatigue, and liver abnormalities. These side effects can be managed with proper monitoring and dosing adjustments.
Lomitapide should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional. It is usually taken once daily, with or without food. It is important to follow a low-fat diet and avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking Lomitapide.
No, Lomitapide should not be used during pregnancy as it may harm the developing baby. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding as it can pass into breast milk.
Lomitapide may start working within a few weeks, but it may take several months to see the full effects on cholesterol levels. Regular blood tests will be done to monitor cholesterol levels and determine the effectiveness of the medication.
Yes, Lomitapide can interact with other medications, including certain cholesterol-lowering drugs, antifungal medications, HIV medications, and other drugs that may affect liver enzymes. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
No, Lomitapide is not a cure for high cholesterol. It is a treatment that helps to lower LDL cholesterol levels in people with HoFH. It should be used in combination with other cholesterol-lowering measures, such as a low-fat diet and exercise.
If you accidentally miss a dose of Lomitapide, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Warning
WARNING: Lomitapide may rarely cause serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. This medication increases fat in the liver, which may also increase the risk for liver disease. Careful monitoring by your doctor may decrease your risk. Lab and/or medical tests (such as liver function) should be done before starting treatment and while you are taking this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Get medical help right away if you have any symptoms of liver damage, such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine. For patients to receive this medication, all doctors, pharmacists, and patients must agree to, understand, and carefully follow the requirements of the Juxtapid REMS Program. These requirements apply in the United States. If you live in Canada or any other country, consult your doctor and pharmacist for your country's regulations.
Disclaimer
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
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