Description
Lipofen is a prescription drug that your doctor might give you to treat high cholesterol. It is usually used to treat a specific type of cholesterol called triglycerides. High triglycerides are a major risk factor for pancreatitis and heart disease.
Lipofen works by attaching to the nuclear transcription factor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPAR-alpha). Attaching to this transcription factor prevents the formation of certain types of cholesterol. Since Lipofen has not been linked to a reduction in fatal heart disease, it should not be given as the only treatment for high cholesterol.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C20H21ClO4 |
License |
US FDA, EU EMA |
Bioavailability |
- |
Legal status |
Rx-only |
Chemical Name |
Fenofibrate |
Elimination half-life |
20h |
Dosage (Strength) |
50mg, 134mg, 150mg, 200mg |
Pregnancy |
No Known Risk |
Brands |
Fenoglide, Lipofen |
Protein binding |
99% |
PubChem CID |
3339 |
MedlinePlus |
a601052 |
ChEBI |
5001 |
ATC code |
C10AB05 |
DrugBank |
DB01039 |
KEGG |
D00565 |
Routes of administration |
By mouth |
Directions
Take 50-150 mg by mouth once daily as directed by your doctor. Lipofen should be taken with food.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Lipofen is fenofibrate.
Interactions
The most common drug-drug interactions with this drug include:
- Acipimox
- Bile Acid Sequestrants
- Ciprofibrate
- Colchicine
- CycloSPORINE
- Ezetimibe
- Fosphenytoin-Phenytoin
- HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
- Raltegravir
- Sulfonylureas
- Tacrolimus
- Vitamin K Antagonists
- Warfarin
Cautions
Tell your doctor if you have a history of kidney or liver problems before starting this drug.
Tell your doctor if you have a history of blood clots before starting this medication.
Use caution if you are also taking statin medications for the treatment of cholesterol because it can increase the risk of muscle disease.
Side Effects
Common side effects of this medication may include:
- Abdominal pain
- Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis
- Acute kidney injury
- Agranulocytosis
- Anaphylaxis
- Anemia
- Angioedema
- Arthralgia
- Asthenia
- Cholestatic hepatitis
- Constipation
- Decreased HDL cholesterol
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Dyspepsia
- Headache
- Hepatic cirrhosis
- Hepatitis
- Hepatotoxicity
- Increased creatine phosphokinase
- Increased serum alanine aminotransferase
- Increased serum aspartate aminotransferase
- Increased serum bilirubin
- Increased serum creatinine
- Interstitial pulmonary disease
- Limb pain
- Muscle spasm
- Myalgia
- Myopathy
- Nasopharyngitis
- Pain
- Pancreatitis
- Pulmonary embolism
- Rhabdomyolysis
- Rhinitis
- Sinusitis
- Skin photosensitivity
- Skin rash
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome
- Thrombocytopenia
- Toxic epidermal necrolysis
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Urticaria
References
Lipofen [package insert]. Juncos, Puerto Rico: Galephar Pharmaceutical Research Inc.; 2006.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lipofen (Fenofibrate Micro)
What is Lipofen used for?
Lipofen is used to lower high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides (fatty substances) in the blood, which may help in preventing atherosclerosis (clogged arteries).
How does Lipofen work?
Lipofen lowers bad cholesterol and fats such as LDL and triglycerides, and increases good cholesterol (HDL) in the blood.
What are the side effects of Lipofen?
Some side effects include allergic reactions, severe skin reactions, and in rare cases, a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue.
How should Lipofen be taken?
Lipofen should be taken as prescribed by your doctor, often alongside a proper diet to effectively lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Can Lipofen prevent other conditions?
It may help prevent the development of pancreatitis caused by high levels of triglycerides in the blood.
How long does it take for Lipofen to work?
It might take several weeks to months to see a significant reduction in cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It’s important to continue taking Lipofen even if you feel well.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Lipofen?
It's advisable to limit alcohol consumption while taking Lipofen as alcohol may increase the risk of liver disease or interfere with the effectiveness of the medication.
What should I avoid while taking Lipofen?
It’s advisable to avoid foods high in cholesterol and fat, and maintain a healthy lifestyle including regular exercise.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Lipofen?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Can I take Lipofen if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
It isn't recommended to take Lipofen during pregnancy. While it isn't known if it will affect the baby, there is limited data on the risks and benefits it poses to pregnant people.
About Dr. Conor Sheehy (Page Author)
Dr. Sheehy (BSc Molecular Biology, PharmD) works a clinical pharmacist specializing in cardiology, oncology, and ambulatory care. He’s a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS), and his experience working one-on-one with patients to fine tune their medication and therapy plans for optimal results makes him a valuable subject matter expert for our pharmacy. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 1523