Common Use

Fenofibrate contains the active substance fenofibrate. In the tissues, it turns into the active metabolite fenofibric acid. Together with a diet, it is used to treat people with very high levels of triglycerides in the blood or lipid disorders.

The drug works by:

• Increasing activity of lipoprotein lipase
• Enhancing catabolism of triglycerides in very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL)
• Accelerating transfer of cholesterol from VLDL to high-density lipoproteins (HDL)
• Decreasing synthesis of VLDL

Dosage and Direction

Take Fenofibrate orally with these recommended dosages:

• Initial dose for high cholesterol or high cholesterol with high triglycerides: 160 mg three times daily
• Starting dose for high triglycerides: 54-160 mg daily
• May gradually increase every 4-8 weeks up to maximum 160 mg daily if triglycerides don't improve

Precautions

Important precautions when taking Fenofibrate:

• Regular monitoring of transaminase activity required
• Discontinue if ALT increases 2x or more with myalgia and muscle weakness
• Must be used under doctor supervision with a hypolipidemic diet
• Requires long-term treatment
• May cause gallstones

Contraindications

Do not use Fenofibrate if you have:

• Hypersensitivity to any components of Fenofibrate

Possible Side Effects

Potential side effects include:

• Cholelithiasis (gallstones)
• Elevated transaminases and creatine kinase
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Muscle pain (myalgia, myositis)
• Rhabdomyolysis (rapid muscle breakdown)
• Acute renal failure
• Dizziness or headache
• Abdominal or back pain
• Fatigue
• Impotence
• Skin rash

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms.

Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor if taking these medications:

• Blood thinners (warfarin)
• Cyclosporine
• MAO inhibitors (selegiline, furazolidone, etc.)
• Diabetes medications (glipizide, insulin)
• Estrogens/birth control pills
• Statins (lovastatin, pravastatin, etc.)
• High-dose niacin (1+ grams daily)

Combination with statins or high-dose niacin may cause muscle injury (myopathy).

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose:

• Take it as soon as you remember
• Skip if close to next scheduled dose
• Never double dose
• Resume regular schedule next day

Overdose

Taking too much Fenofibrate can be dangerous. Seek immediate medical help if overdose is suspected.

Storage

Store Fenofibrate properly by:

• Keeping at room temperature (59-77°F/15-25°C)
• Protecting from light and moisture
• Keeping away from children and pets
• Not using after expiration date

Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and does not cover all possible uses, interactions, or precautions. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific medical advice. Never self-diagnose or self-treat based on this information. We are not responsible for any consequences from using this information without professional guidance.