Mechanism of Action: Reduces triglycerides and increases high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα). This action helps to enhance the oxidation of fatty acids and reduce lipid production in the liver.
Indications
Primary Use: Treatment of hypertriglyceridemia (high triglyceride levels) and mixed dyslipidemia.
Other Uses: Sometimes used in combination with statins to reduce LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels in patients at risk of cardiovascular disease.
Dosage
Adults: Varies depending on the formulation and specific patient conditions. Commonly, 145 mg once daily.
Elderly: No major adjustments necessary, but caution is advised due to potential side effects.
Children: Not recommended for use in children.
Administration
Method: Oral intake.
Precautions: Should be taken with meals to increase absorption.
Forms Available
Tablets: 48 mg, 145 mg
Capsules: 50 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg
Microcoated Tablets: 160 mg
Side Effects
Common: Gastrointestinal symptoms (abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea), headache, back pain.
Less Common: Increased liver enzymes, muscle pain, fatigue.
Rare but Serious: Rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle damage), liver toxicity, severe allergic reactions.
Warnings
Black Box Warning: None.
Contraindications: Severe liver disease, including primary biliary cirrhosis and unexplained persistent liver enzyme abnormalities; gallbladder disease; severe renal impairment; nursing mothers.
Precautions
General: Monitor liver function and CK (creatine kinase) levels to detect early signs of muscle or liver damage.
Health Conditions: Use with caution in patients with pre-existing gallbladder disease, renal impairment, or hypothyroidism.
Interactions
Medications: Risk of muscle toxicity increases when used with statins, certain immunosuppressants, and other fibric acid derivatives.
Food: No significant food interactions, but consistency in diet helps manage cholesterol levels.
Monitoring Parameters
Lipid Levels: Regular monitoring of LDL, HDL, and triglycerides.
Liver Function Tests: Periodic liver enzyme tests recommended.
Kidney Function: Assess renal function, especially in patients with known renal issues.
Use in Children
Guidelines: Not typically prescribed due to lack of safety and efficacy data.
Use in Pregnancy
FDA Category: C. Should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Use in Elderly
Considerations: Initiate treatment at the lowest effective dose and monitor for muscle and liver side effects.
Use in Kidney Disease
Adjustments: Dose adjustment may be necessary in patients with renal impairment.
Use in Liver Disease
Caution: Avoid use in patients with significant liver disease due to the risk of further liver damage.
Patient Counselling Points
Medication Use: Importance of taking as prescribed, not discontinuing without consulting healthcare provider.
Side Effects: Alert patients to report any muscle weakness, tenderness, or symptoms of liver problems immediately.
Lifestyle: Discuss the importance of diet, weight control, and physical activity in managing lipid levels.
Table of Brand Names, Manufacturer, and Prices in USD
Brand Name
Manufacturer
Strength/Dosage Form
Price (USD)
Tricor
AbbVie
145 mg Tablet
$2.50
Lipofen
Kowa
150 mg Capsule
$2.00
Fenoglide
Santarus
120 mg Tablet
$1.80
15 FAQs with Answers
What is Fenofibrate used for? – Primarily for reducing high triglyceride and bad cholesterol levels.
How does Fenofibrate work? – By activating enzymes that help break down fats in the blood.
Can Fenofibrate be taken with food? – Yes, taking it with meals can improve drug absorption.
What are common side effects of Fenofibrate? – Gastrointestinal discomfort, headaches, and back pain.
Is Fenofibrate safe during pregnancy? – It is categorized under FDA Pregnancy Category C. Use only if clearly needed.
Can I stop taking Fenofibrate if my symptoms improve? – Continue taking Fenofibrate as prescribed; do not stop without consulting your doctor.
How often should my cholesterol levels be checked? – Regular monitoring as recommended by your healthcare provider.
What should I do if I experience muscle pain while taking Fenofibrate? – Report muscle pain or weakness to your doctor immediately as it may indicate serious muscle damage.
Can Fenofibrate cause liver issues? – Yes, it can increase liver enzymes; liver function should be monitored.
Is it safe to consume alcohol while taking Fenofibrate? – Alcohol can increase triglyceride levels and should be consumed in moderation.
Can Fenofibrate be used in children? – It is not generally recommended for children.
What dietary recommendations should I follow while taking Fenofibrate? – A diet low in cholesterol and fats is typically recommended.
What other medications can interact with Fenofibrate? – Statins and certain immunosuppressants can interact, increasing the risk of muscle damage.
Who should not take Fenofibrate? – Patients with severe liver or kidney disease, and nursing mothers should avoid it.
How does Fenofibrate affect kidney function? – Patients with pre-existing kidney disease should be monitored closely as Fenofibrate may affect renal function.