Fenofibrate

About fenofibrate

This belongs to the group of medicines known as lipid-regulating drugs.

Fenofibrate is used to lower levels of cholesterol and other lipids (fats) in the blood. High levels of cholesterol do not make people feel ill but can cause problems if left untreated.

Fenofibrate may help prevent medical problems caused by cholesterol and fats building up in blood vessels, such as heart disease and other problems.

Fenofibrate is available in capsule form. Fenofibrate is also available as a modified release preparation, which means fenofibrate is released slowly over the day to give a more even effect.

It is also sometimes known as: Fenogal; Lipantil Micro; Supralip. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before taking fenofibrate

Before taking fenofibrate make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from liver, kidney or gall bladder problems
• if you have an underactive thyroid
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine, especially ketoprofen
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to take fenofibrate

• Take fenofibrate exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Fenofibrate should be taken with or immediately after food.
• Try to take fenofibrate at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you do miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember and carry on taking it at the usual times. If it is nearly time for your next dose, leave out the missed dose, never take two doses to make up.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of fenofibrate contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside fenofibrate.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor. You will probably need to have tests, particularly in the first year of treatment, to ensure the dose of fenofibrate you are taking is right for you.
• Many people are able to control their condition by carefully following their doctor's directions for a healthy diet and exercise. Medicine is prescribed only when additional help is needed and this medicine is only effective when a healthy diet is also followed.
• Fenofibrate is less effective if you are greatly overweight. It may be very important for you to go on a weight reducing diet. However, check with your doctor before going on any diet.
• Even if you do not feel unwell, never stop taking fenofibrate without checking with your doctor first. When you stop taking fenofibrate, your cholesterol levels may increase again.
• Do not smoke. Smoking tends to increase your cholesterol level and also puts a strain on the heart and circulatory system.
• Avoid drinking too much alcohol while you are being treated with fenofibrate. Alcohol can also increase your cholesterol levels.
• Fenofibrate can occasionally cause dizziness. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were to become dizzy.
• Fenofibrate can occasionally increase people's sensitivity to sunlight, making them more prone to burning. Avoid exposure to the sun and sunbeds until you know how your skin reacts or wear a sun cream higher than factor 15.

Can fenofibrate cause problems?

As well as their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Feeling sick, weight loss, tummy pain, skin rashes, itching, sexual problems, headache, dizziness, loss of balance or tiredness.

Important: If you experience pain and weakness in your muscles for no obvious reason or jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes) contact your doctor immediately.

If you experience any other worrying or troublesome symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist.

How to store fenofibrate

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Do not keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 14/09/2005