What is the most important information I should know about fenofibric acid?
You should not take fenofibric acid if you have liver disease, gallbladder disease, severe kidney disease, or if you are breast-feeding a baby.
In rare cases, fenofibric acid can cause a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, leading to kidney failure. Call your doctor right away if you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness especially if you also have fever, unusual tiredness, or dark colored urine.
Fenofibric acid helps reduce cholesterol and triglycerides (fatty acids) in the blood. High levels of these types of fat in the blood are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis (clogged arteries).
Fenofibric acid is used to treat high cholesterol and high triglyceride levels. It is sometimes given together with other cholesterol-lowering medications.
Fenofibric acid may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking fenofibric acid?
an allergic reaction to any medication.
Fenofibric acid can cause a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, leading to kidney failure. This condition may be more likely to occur in older adults and in people who have kidney disease or poorly controlled hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).
Do not breast-feed while you are taking fenofibric acid.
Fenofibric acid is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
How should I take fenofibric acid?
You may take fenofibric acid with or without food.
Do not crush, chew, break, or dissolve a fenofibric acid capsule or tablet. Swallow it whole.
If you also take cholestyramine, colesevelam, or colestipol, take these other medicines at least 1 hour after or 4 to 6 hours before you take fenofibric acid.
While using fenofibric acid, you may need frequent blood tests. Your gallbladder, kidney function, and liver function may also need to be checked. You may not notice any change in your symptoms, but your blood work will help your doctor determine how long to treat you with fenofibric acid.
Fenofibric acid is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, and other medications. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.
What should I avoid while taking fenofibric acid?
Avoid eating foods that are high in fat or cholesterol. Fenofibric acid will not be as effective in lowering your cholesterol if you do not follow a cholesterol-lowering diet plan.
What are the possible side effects of fenofibric acid?
signs of a blood clot in your lung --chest pain, sudden cough, wheezing, rapid breathing, coughing up blood.
What other drugs will affect fenofibric acid?
This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with fenofibric acid, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.
Your pharmacist can provide more information about fenofibric acid.
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