Fenofibrate

Pronunciation

Brand Names

Therapeutic Categories

What is this medicine used for?

• This medicine is used in combination with diet to decrease triglycerides that are very high.
• It is used to prevent irritation of the pancreas.

How does it work?

• Fenofibrate increases break down of bad cholesterol (low density lipoprotein). A decrease in triglycerides follows.

How is it best taken?

• Take with food.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

• Skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
• Do not take a double dose or extra doses.

What are the precautions when taking this medicine?

• Avoid alcohol intake (includes wine, beer, and liquor). It can make triglycerides higher.
• If you are on warfarin, you will require more frequent INR monitoring.
• Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat; or any other symptoms involved.
• Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
• Do not use if you are breast-feeding.

What are the common side effects of this medicine?

• Belly pain, heartburn, and cramps.
• Nausea or vomiting. Small frequent meals, frequent mouth care, sucking hard candy, or chewing gum may help.

What should I monitor?

• Follow diet plan and exercise program as recommended by healthcare provider.
• Check lipid (cholesterol) panel. Talk with healthcare provider.
• Check prothrombin time or INR if you are taking warfarin. Talk with healthcare provider.

Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately

• Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; tightness in the chest; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Severe stomach discomfort, nausea/vomiting.

How should I store this medicine?

• Store at room temperature. Protect from moisture.

General statements

• Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
• Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, herbal/supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, pharmacist, physician assistant).
• Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter or natural products (herbs, vitamins).

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