Name: Fenofibrate (Antara, Fenoglide, Lofibra, Triglide, Tricor)
Purpose: To lower triglycerides and reduce the risk of pancreatitis. May also lower LDL and Non-HDL cholesterol.
Works by: Decreasing the production of triglycerides in the liver and by stimulating the break down of triglyceride-rich particles.
Dose: The mg dose ranges vary with the individual product. Antara 43 or 130; Lofibra 67,134, or 200; Fenoglide 40 or 120; Triglide 50 or 160; Tricor 48 or 145. Your doctor wants you to take _______________________ at the _______mg dose.
You should not take fenofibrate if:
*You have liver, gallbladder, or severe kidney disease.
*You should be cautious about taking fenofibrate with high doses of Niacin (Niaspan), or statins; however, combinations of these medications may be ordered by the Lipid MD with careful monitoring.
Possible side effects: Call your doctor or the lipid clinic if you have: Skin rash, fatigue, muscle aches, flu, infections, gallbladder problems, or other new or unusual symptoms. Report promptly any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, particularly if you also have malaise, fever, or dark colored urine.
Follow-up lab tests: In addition to lipid profiles, liver enzymes and complete blood counts need to be done periodically for safety monitoring.
Drug interactions: Careful medical monitoring is required if you take fenofibrate with other cholesterol lowering statin medications due to a possible risk of muscle damage that could lead to kidney failure.
*If you are taking Coumadin or anticoagulant therapy, the dosage should be reduced to maintain the international ratio (INR) at the desired level to prevent bleeding complications. Frequent INR determinations are advisable until it has been definitely determined that the INR has stabilized. Please report any bleeding or bruising.
Special instructions:
-Always take the prescribed amount of medicine.
-Have lab tests done promptly when ordered.
PRECAUTION: Women capable of childbearing must have a pregnancy test (serum HCG) before starting this medication. This is a category C drug and should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.