Probucol (By mouth)

Introduction

Probucol (PROE-bue-kol)

Lowers high cholesterol levels. This medicine was withdrawn from the U.S. market in 1995 because it may cause serious side effects.

Brand Name(s)

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

How to Use This Medicine

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.
• To avoid stomach upset, take this medicine with food or milk.
• While you are taking this medicine, follow a low-cholesterol, low-fat diet.

If a dose is missed:

• Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Check with your doctor before taking probucol if you have heart disease or liver disease.
• If you are using this medicine and want to have a baby, talk with your doctor before you try to get pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you are pregnant.
• Do not breastfeed while you are taking probucol.
• Keep all appointments with your doctor while taking this medicine.
• This medicine is used with diet, exercise, and weight loss in overweight patients to control high cholesterol levels. To lower and keep your cholesterol normal, all of these are important.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Irregular heartbeat.
• Chest pain.
• Unusual bleeding or bruising.
• Bloody vomit or bowel movements.
• Blurred vision.
• Rash or itching.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Diarrhea.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Stomach pain.
• Bloating or gas.
• Headache.
• Decreased sexual desire.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088