Fenofibrate
Coronary Artery Disease, Hypercholesterolemia ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Peroxisome Proliferator Receptor alpha Agonist
Controlled Drug Substance
No
fenofibrate
Summary
Fenofibrate is used to lower high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which are fats in the blood. This helps reduce the risk of heart disease and pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas.
Fenofibrate works by increasing the breakdown of fats in the body. It belongs to a class of drugs called fibrates, which help lower "bad" LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing "good" HDL cholesterol.
The usual starting dose of Fenofibrate for adults is 145 mg once daily, taken with food. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response and any side effects. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions.
Common side effects of Fenofibrate include stomach pain, nausea, and headache. These effects are usually mild and occur in a small percentage of users. If you experience severe or persistent symptoms, contact your doctor.
Fenofibrate can cause liver problems, so regular liver function tests are recommended. It may increase the risk of muscle problems, especially with statins. Do not take Fenofibrate if you have severe liver or kidney disease, gallbladder disease, or are allergic to it.
Indications and Purpose
How does Fenofibrate work?
Fenofibrate works by increasing the breakdown of fats in the body. It belongs to a class of drugs called fibrates, which help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Think of it like a cleaner that helps remove excess fat from your blood. Fenofibrate activates certain enzymes that break down fats, reducing "bad" LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing "good" HDL cholesterol. This helps lower the risk of heart disease and pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas. Fenofibrate is often used alongside diet and lifestyle changes for the best results.
Is Fenofibrate effective?
Fenofibrate is effective in lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. It works by increasing the breakdown of fats in the body. Clinical studies show that Fenofibrate significantly reduces triglyceride levels and can increase "good" HDL cholesterol. This helps lower the risk of heart disease and pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas. Fenofibrate is often used alongside diet and lifestyle changes for the best results. Always follow your doctor's advice for managing your cholesterol levels.
What is Fenofibrate?
Fenofibrate is a medication used to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. It belongs to a class of drugs called fibrates, which work by increasing the breakdown of fats in the body. Fenofibrate is primarily used to treat high cholesterol and high triglyceride levels, which can increase the risk of heart disease. It is often used alongside diet and lifestyle changes to improve lipid levels. Fenofibrate can also help reduce the risk of pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas, in people with very high triglyceride levels.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Fenofibrate?
Fenofibrate is usually a long-term medication for managing cholesterol and triglyceride levels. You'll typically take it every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your cholesterol levels to rise, increasing the risk of heart disease. How long you'll need this medication depends on your body's response, any side effects you experience, and changes in your overall health. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your Fenofibrate treatment.
How do I dispose of Fenofibrate?
To dispose of Fenofibrate, take it to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so it doesn't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take Fenofibrate?
Take Fenofibrate as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily. It's best to take it with food to help your body absorb it better. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew it. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions regarding diet and medication timing.
How long does it take for Fenofibrate to start working?
Fenofibrate starts working in your body shortly after you take it, but you may not notice all the benefits right away. It can take several weeks to see significant changes in your cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Your doctor will monitor these levels through blood tests to assess the medication's effectiveness. How quickly Fenofibrate works can depend on your overall health, diet, and lifestyle. Take it exactly as prescribed for the best results. Regular check-ups with your doctor are important to track your progress.
How should I store Fenofibrate?
Store Fenofibrate at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Avoid storing it in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture can affect the medication's effectiveness. If your pills came in packaging that isn't child-resistant, transfer them to a container that children can't easily open. Always store Fenofibrate out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of Fenofibrate?
The usual starting dose of Fenofibrate for adults is typically 145 mg once daily. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response and any side effects. The maximum recommended dose is usually 145 mg per day. For elderly patients or those with kidney problems, dose adjustments may be necessary. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs. Do not change your dose without consulting your healthcare provider.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Fenofibrate be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Fenofibrate is not recommended while breastfeeding. There is limited information on whether this medication passes into human breast milk. However, it may pose risks to the nursing infant. If you're taking Fenofibrate and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely. Your doctor can help determine the best approach for managing your cholesterol levels while ensuring your baby's safety.
Can Fenofibrate be taken safely while pregnant?
Fenofibrate is not recommended during pregnancy. There is limited evidence on its safety for pregnant women, and it may harm the unborn baby. Animal studies have shown potential risks, but human data is lacking. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about safer alternatives to manage your cholesterol levels. Your doctor can help create a treatment plan that protects both you and your baby during pregnancy.
Can I take Fenofibrate with other prescription drugs?
Fenofibrate can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects. Combining it with statins can raise the risk of muscle problems. It may also interact with blood thinners like warfarin, increasing bleeding risk. Always inform your doctor about all medications you're taking to avoid harmful interactions. Your doctor can adjust your treatment plan to ensure safety and effectiveness. Regular monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider are key to managing these interactions.
Does Fenofibrate have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. With Fenofibrate, common adverse effects include stomach pain, nausea, and headache. These occur in a small percentage of users. Serious adverse effects, like liver problems or muscle pain, are rare but require immediate medical attention. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms while taking Fenofibrate, contact your doctor. They can help determine if these symptoms are related to the medication and advise on the best course of action.
Does Fenofibrate have any safety warnings?
Yes, Fenofibrate has important safety warnings. It can cause liver problems, so regular liver function tests are recommended. It may also increase the risk of muscle problems, especially when taken with statins. If you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, contact your doctor immediately. Fenofibrate can affect kidney function, so monitoring is important. Not adhering to these warnings can lead to serious health issues. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any unusual symptoms.
Is Fenofibrate addictive?
Fenofibrate is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Fenofibrate works by affecting lipid levels in your blood to help manage cholesterol and triglycerides. This mechanism doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to take more than prescribed. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that Fenofibrate doesn't carry this risk while managing your health condition.
Is Fenofibrate safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals are more vulnerable to the side effects of medications like Fenofibrate. This is due to age-related changes in liver and kidney function, which can affect how the body processes the drug. Fenofibrate is generally safe for the elderly, but they may be at higher risk for muscle problems and liver issues. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is important to ensure safety and effectiveness. Always follow your doctor's advice when taking Fenofibrate.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Fenofibrate?
It's best to limit alcohol while taking Fenofibrate. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage, which is a potential side effect of Fenofibrate. Drinking alcohol can also raise triglyceride levels, counteracting the medication's effects. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation and discuss your alcohol use with your doctor. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific health situation and help you manage your cholesterol levels effectively.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Fenofibrate?
Yes, you can exercise while taking Fenofibrate. Regular physical activity is beneficial for managing cholesterol levels. However, Fenofibrate can sometimes cause muscle pain or weakness, especially when taken with statins. If you experience these symptoms during exercise, stop and rest. Talk with your doctor if muscle pain persists. They can help determine if the medication is causing these issues and suggest ways to manage them while maintaining your exercise routine.
Is it safe to stop Fenofibrate?
It's important to talk with your doctor before stopping Fenofibrate. This medication is usually used long-term to manage cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Stopping it suddenly may cause your lipid levels to rise, increasing the risk of heart disease. Your doctor might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control. Always follow your doctor's advice to ensure your health is protected.
What are the most common side effects of Fenofibrate?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. With Fenofibrate, common side effects include stomach pain, nausea, and headache. These effects vary from person to person. If you notice new symptoms after starting Fenofibrate, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication. They can help determine if the side effects are related to Fenofibrate and suggest ways to manage them.
Who should avoid taking Fenofibrate?
Do not take Fenofibrate if you have severe liver or kidney disease, gallbladder disease, or are allergic to it. These are absolute contraindications due to severe risks. Use caution if you have a history of muscle problems or are taking statins, as this increases the risk of muscle damage. Always inform your doctor about your medical history and any other medications you are taking. They can help determine if Fenofibrate is safe for you.
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