How Nexlizet Interacts with Alcohol, Medications, and Supplements

Nexlizet (bempedoic acid/ezetimibe) is a prescription medication primarily used to reduce cholesterol and certain risks related to heart and blood vessels. It can interact with several substances, including alcohol, other medications, and even supplements. Understanding these potential interactions is vital for preventing adverse effects and ensuring the medication works effectively.

This article will explore Nexlizet's interactions with alcohol, other drugs, supplements, and health conditions, along with prevention strategies to avoid complications.

Does Nexlizet Interact with Other Drugs?

Nexlizet can interact with various prescription and over-the-counter medications. Before beginning treatment, inform your healthcare provider of any medications you are currently taking to help prevent potential interactions.

Below is a list of common drugs and drug classes that may interact with Nexlizet:

Drug Interactions Table:

When Should I Avoid Nexlizet?

Certain health conditions can make taking Nexlizet risky. You should avoid Nexlizet in the following scenarios:

• Allergic Reaction: If you have ever had an allergic reaction to Nexlizet or any of its ingredients, your doctor will likely recommend alternative treatments to avoid another reaction.

If any of these factors apply to you, consult your healthcare provider before starting Nexlizet. They can help determine if Nexlizet is safe or suggest other treatments.

Does Nexlizet Interact with Alcohol?

While there are no direct interactions between Nexlizet and alcohol, combining the two may increase the risk of certain side effects, such as:

• Elevated Liver Enzymes: Both Nexlizet and alcohol can increase liver enzymes, potentially indicating liver damage.
• Gout: Nexlizet can raise uric acid levels, and consuming alcohol, especially beer or spirits, may further increase the risk of gout.

If you drink alcohol, consult your doctor or pharmacist about the potential risks associated with Nexlizet.

Drug Interactions Explained

Interaction with Statins

Nexlizet can interact with statin medications, often prescribed to lower cholesterol. Examples include:

• Simvastatin (Zocor)
• Pravastatin (Pravachol)

What Could Happen: Taking Nexlizet with statins can increase the risk of muscle-related side effects, such as:

• Muscle pain
• Muscle weakness
• Rhabdomyolysis: A severe condition involving the breakdown of damaged muscles.

What You Can Do: If you are taking a statin, inform your doctor before starting Nexlizet. Your doctor may adjust the dosage of your statin or monitor you closely for any muscle-related symptoms.

Interaction with Fibrates

Nexlizet can interact with fibrates, another class of cholesterol-lowering drugs. Examples include:

• Gemfibrozil (Lopid)
• Fenofibrate (Antara)

What Could Happen: Taking these medications together may increase the risk of developing gallstones.

What You Can Do: If you are taking fibrates, talk to your doctor before starting Nexlizet. They may recommend alternative treatment options if necessary.

Interaction with Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids, commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation, can also interact with Nexlizet. Examples include:

• Prednisone (Deltasone)
• Methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol)

What Could Happen: Using these drugs with Nexlizet may raise the risk of tendon rupture.

What You Can Do: Before starting corticosteroids, inform your doctor that you are taking Nexlizet. If both drugs are necessary, your doctor will monitor you closely for any signs of tendon problems.

Are There Other Interactions with Nexlizet?

Nexlizet may also interact with supplements, food, vaccines, and lab tests. Here’s a closer look at these interactions:

Does Nexlizet Interact with Supplements?

While no current reports suggest that Nexlizet interacts with supplements such as herbs or vitamins, it’s essential to consult your doctor before combining them with Nexlizet.

Does Nexlizet Interact with Food?

Nexlizet has no known interactions with food. However, if you have concerns about diet during your treatment, it’s best to talk to your healthcare provider.

Does Nexlizet Interact with Vaccines?

There are no reports of Nexlizet interacting with vaccines. Always consult your doctor before getting a vaccine during treatment.

Does Nexlizet Interact with Lab Tests?

Currently, there are no reports of Nexlizet interfering with lab tests. If you have any concerns about lab results, speak with your doctor.

Does Nexlizet Interact with Cannabis or CBD?

Nexlizet is not known to interact with cannabis or CBD products. Still, it’s wise to check with your healthcare provider before using cannabis in any form while taking Nexlizet.

Does My Health History Affect Whether I Should Take Nexlizet?

Certain health conditions may increase the risk of adverse effects from Nexlizet. These include:

• Kidney Problems: Nexlizet may worsen kidney issues in some people.
• Liver Problems: The medication can cause elevated liver enzymes, signaling potential liver damage.
• Gout: Nexlizet can raise uric acid levels, increasing the risk of gout.
• Tendon Problems: Nexlizet may cause tendon ruptures, especially in people with a history of tendon issues.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It is not known if Nexlizet is safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Always consult your doctor about your medical history before starting Nexlizet.

How Can I Prevent Interactions?

To minimize the risk of interactions with Nexlizet, follow these steps:

1. Disclose all medications and supplements: Inform your healthcare provider of all drugs you take, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products.
2. Avoid alcohol or cannabis: Consult your doctor before consuming alcohol or cannabis while on Nexlizet.
3. Read the medication label: Review any colored warning stickers or additional paperwork provided with Nexlizet for details on potential interactions.

By taking Nexlizet as prescribed and following these guidelines, you can help prevent unwanted interactions.

Conclusion

Nexlizet is an effective cholesterol-lowering medication, but it’s essential to be aware of possible interactions with other drugs, alcohol, and health conditions. Always keep your doctor informed about your medication and supplement use, and ask questions if you are uncertain about potential interactions.

FAQs

1. Can I drink alcohol while taking Nexlizet?

   • Alcohol is not known to interact with Nexlizet, but it can increase the risk of gout and liver enzyme elevation.

2. What drugs should I avoid while taking Nexlizet?

   • You should be cautious with statins, fibrates, corticosteroids, and fluoroquinolones, as they may increase the risk of side effects.

3. Are there any food interactions with Nexlizet?

   • No food interactions are currently known with Nexlizet.

4. Can I take Nexlizet during pregnancy?

   • It’s not known whether Nexlizet is safe during pregnancy. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

5. Does Nexlizet interact with cannabis?

   • No interactions have been reported between Nexlizet and cannabis, but it’s still important to talk to your doctor before using cannabis