What is Fenofibrate?
Fenofibrate belongs to the class of medications called fibric acid derivatives. It is used in combination with diet and exercise to help lower levels of cholesterol (such as LDL) and triglycerides in the blood, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. Fenofibrate also helps increase HDL (good cholesterol) levels in the body. It works by helping to remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream into the liver for disposal. This medication is available over-the-counter under various brand names such as Lofibra and Tricor.
What is Fenofibrate used for?
Fenofibrate is a medication used in the treatment of dyslipidemia, which is characterized by an abnormal level of lipids (cholesterol and/or triglycerides) in the blood. It belongs to a class of drugs known as fibrates, which work by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-alpha), a nuclear receptor that regulates lipid metabolism.
The primary indication for fenofibrate is hypertriglyceridemia, or high levels of triglycerides in the blood. It is also used to treat mixed dyslipidemia, which involves elevated levels of both triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Additionally, fenofibrate has been shown to have a modest effect on raising high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good” cholesterol levels. The medication is often prescribed in combination with other lipid-lowering agents, such as statins, to achieve optimal control of lipid profiles.
Fenofibrate side effects
- Abdominal pain
- Back pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Joint pain or swelling (arthralgia, arthrosis)
- Muscle pain (myalgia)
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Weakness
Disclaimer
The content on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The information provided here is based on general research and may not apply to individual circumstances. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any content on this website. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your medication or health routine.