Fenofibrate

Generic Details

Generic Name

Fenofibrate

Other Names

  • Tricor
  • Lipofen
  • Triglide

Drug Class

  • Antilipemic agent
  • Fibric acid derivative

Chemical Formula

C20H21ClO4

Molecular Weight

360.83 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Activates PPAR-alpha (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha) to decrease triglycerides and increase HDL cholesterol levels

Indications

  • Hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol or triglycerides)
  • Hypertriglyceridemia
  • Primary or mixed dyslipidemia

Common Dosage Forms

  • Tablet

Typical Dosage

  • 145 mg to 160 mg once daily

Pediatric Dosage

  • Safety and efficacy not established in children

Geriatric Dosage

  • Dose adjustment may be needed based on renal function

Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Abdominal pain
  • Back pain
  • Increased liver enzymes
  • Rash

Contraindications

  • Severe liver or kidney disease
  • Gallbladder disease
  • Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category

  • Category C - Safety in pregnancy has not been established

Lactation Safety

  • Compatible with breastfeeding; monitor infant for GI disturbances

Drug Interactions

  • Warfarin
  • Statins
  • Cyclosporine
  • Bile acid sequestrants

Overdose Symptoms

  • Severe stomach pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

Antidote for Overdose

  • Symptomatic and supportive care; no specific antidote

Storage Conditions

  • Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
  • Distribution: Highly bound to plasma proteins
  • Metabolism: Undergoes hepatic metabolism via glucuronidation and sulfation
  • Excretion: Excreted in urine (60%) and feces (25%)

Precautions

  • Monitor liver function tests periodically
  • Caution in patients with renal impairment

Warnings

  • Risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis when used with statins

Others

  • May increase the risk of pancreatitis; monitor for signs and symptoms