Fenofibrate 160mg

Description

What is Fenofibrate 160mg used for?

Fenofibrate 160mg is used to lower cholesterol (lipids) and triglycerides in the blood. It belongs to a class of medicines called fibrates that prevent coronary heart disease. Fenofibrate increases good cholesterol levels namely HDL. On the other hand, it decreases bad cholesterol levels namely LDL, thereby reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. This medicine is prescribed when cholesterol levels cannot be reduced by means of diet and exercise alone. However, while taking Fenofibrate, it is important to follow a regimen of cholesterol-lowering diet and exercise. This medicine may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

What is the recommended dosage of Fenofibrate?

The dosage of Fenofibrate prescribed to each patient will vary. Always follow your physician’s instructions and/or the directions on the prescription drug label.

What if you miss a dose of Fenofibrate?

If your physician has instructed or directed you to take Fenofibrate medication in a regular schedule and you have missed a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the doses unless otherwise directed.

What if you overdose on Fenofibrate?

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Fenofibrate, seek medical attention immediately. Some of the overdose symptoms of this drug include hypothermia, drowsiness, sweating, and hypotension.

What other drugs could interact with Fenofibrate 160mg?

• Atorvastatin
• Cerivastatin
• Fluvastatin
• Gengraf
• Lovastatin
• Neoral
• Pravastatin
• Sandimmune
• Simvastatin
• Warfarin

It may be noted that drugs other than those listed above may also interact with Fenofibrate.

Usually drug interactions occur when it is taken with another drug or with food. Before you take a medication for a particular ailment, you should inform the health expert about intake of any other medications including non-prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines that may increase the effect of Fenofibrate, and dietary supplements like vitamins, minerals and herbal, so that the doctor can warn you of any possible drug interactions.

Fenofibrate can interact with blood thinners, anticoagulant medicines, antidiabetic medicines, and other cholesterol-lowering medicines.

Do let your doctor know if you smoke, consume alcohol or caffeinated drinks, or use illegal drugs as these may interfere with the action of your medication. Make sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions you may have, or any family history of medical problems. Do not start or stop using any medicine without consulting your doctor.

What are the side effects of Fenofibrate 160mg?

Like other medicines, Fenofibrate 160mg can cause some side effects. If they do occur, the side effects of Fenofibrate are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and may require the individual to inform the doctor or visit the nearest hospital immediately.

It is pertinent to note that side effects of Fenofibrate cannot be anticipated. If any side effects of Fenofibrate develop or change in intensity, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.

Fenofibrate can cause side effects such as gas, indigestion, joint pain, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, rash, sexual problems, and hair loss. Some of the serious side effects of this medicine are abnormal muscle pain, severe abdominal pain, fever, unusual weakness, hives, and swelling of your face, lips, or tongue. This is not a complete list of all side effects. Do concur with your doctor and follow his directions completely when you are taking Fenofibrate.

What are the questions to ask your doctor before taking Fenofibrate 160mg Tablet?

Is it possible for me to take Fenofibrate with other drugs?
Should certain beverages, foods and other products be avoided when I take Fenofibrate?
What are the possible drug interactions of Fenofibrate?
How will Fenofibrate work in my body?
How should Fenofibrate be taken?
How to reduce the risk of Fenofibrate drug interactions and side effects?

Note

The health and medical information provided here is intended to supplement and not substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacists or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of Fenofibrate is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug. While taking Fenofibrate, avoid drinking alcohol as it can raise triglyceride levels, resulting in liver damage. Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you have low albumin blood levels, history of muscle disease, hypothyroidism, and liver disease.