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Fenofibrate |
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What is Fenofibrate and why is it prescribed? Fenofibrate combats high levels of "bad" LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. Fenofibrate also serves to increase levels of "good" HDL cholesterol. It works by promoting the dissolution and elimination of fat particles in the blood. Fenofibrate is usually added to a treatment regimen only when other measures have failed to produce adequate results. Often, diet and exercise are enough to bring blood fats under control. Likewise, it's sometimes sufficient to simply treat an underlying problem such as diabetes, underactive thyroid, kidney disease, liver dysfunction, or alcoholism. And in some cases, just discontinuing a medication is enough to do the job. For instance, certain water pills and "beta-blocker" heart medications are capable of causing a massive increase in triglyceride levels. Estrogen replacement therapy is another potential culprit. Whatever your other treatment measures may be, it's important to remember that Fenofibrate is intended to supplement them. To get the full benefit of Fenofibrate, you need to stick to the diet, exercise program, and other treatments your doctor prescribes. Drugs such as Fenofibrate have caused rare cases of a muscle-wasting disease called rhabdomyolysis. The chances of this problem rise dramatically when Fenofibrate is combined with another type of cholesterol-lowering drug called "statins." Among these drugs are Lescol, Lipitor, Mevacor, Pravachol, and Zocor. Avoid combining Fenofibrate with any of them unless your doctor feels it's absolutely necessary. Inform him immediately if you develop muscle pain or weakness, especially if these symptoms are accompanied by fatigue or fever. How should you take Fenofibrate? Follow your doctors directions for taking Fenofibrate. Fenofibrate should be taken with meals. If you've also been prescribed a cholesterol-lowering drug such as Questran or Colestid, take Fenofibrate at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after the other drug to make sure Fenofibrate is properly absorbed. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time. Store Fenofibrate at room temperature and protect from moisture. Are there any Fenofibrate side effects? Fenofibrate side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Fenofibrate side effects may include abdominal pain, back pain, headache, and respiratory disorders. Less common Fenofibrate side effects may include constipation, nausea, and runny nose. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Fenofibrate? If Fenofibrate is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Fenofibrate with The cholesterol-lowering drugs Colestid and Questran, Cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral), "Statins" (the cholesterol-lowering drugs Lescol, Lipitor, Mevacor, Pravachol, and Zocor), or Warfarin (Coumadin). Are there any special warnings about Fenofibrate? Fenofibrate has the potential to cause gallstones. Your doctor will discontinue Fenofibrate if gallstones develop. Fenofibrate may also affect liver function. Your doctor should perform periodic blood tests to monitor the health of your liver. Fenofibrate has not been tested in children. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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