Thursday, November 20, 2008
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Lofibra
Name LOFIBRA (Fenofibrate)
Purpose To lower triglycerides and reduce the risk of pancreatitis.
Works by Decreasing the production of triglycerides in the liver and by stimulating the break down of triglyceride-rich particles.
Dose The dosing range is 67 mg to 200 mg, once daily, taken with food. The Doctor wants you to take _______mg.
You should not take LOFIBRA if
You have liver, gallbladder, or severe kidney disease.
You should be cautious about taking LOFIBRA, 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 cholesterol 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 or a fever.
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 LOFIBRA 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 prothrombin time at the desired level to prevent bleeding complications. Frequent prothrombin determinations are advisable until it has been definitely determined that the prothrombin level 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.