Tricor (fenofibrate) is a prescription medication specifically formulated to address significant lipid abnormalities, playing a critical role in comprehensive cardiovascular risk reduction strategies. As a member of the fibrate class, it primarily targets elevated triglyceride levels and optimizes other key lipid parameters. It is indicated for use in conjunction with diet and lifestyle modifications in adult patients. This medication works by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), which modulates the expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism. Proper patient selection and monitoring are essential for achieving optimal therapeutic outcomes while minimizing potential risks.

Features

• Active pharmaceutical ingredient: Fenofibrate
• Available in multiple strengths: 48 mg and 145 mg tablets
• PPARα agonist mechanism of action
• Micronized formulation for enhanced bioavailability
• Once-daily dosing regimen
• Manufactured under strict pharmaceutical quality standards

Benefits

• Significantly reduces elevated serum triglyceride levels in adult patients
• Increases high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels
• May reduce cardiovascular risk in appropriately selected patients
• Supports comprehensive lipid management when combined with lifestyle modifications
• Provides convenient once-daily dosing to support treatment adherence
• Offers targeted therapy for specific dyslipidemia patterns

Common use

Tricor is primarily prescribed for the treatment of severe hypertriglyceridemia in adults. It is also used as adjunctive therapy to diet in patients with primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia. Clinical use typically involves patients who have not achieved adequate lipid control through dietary measures alone. Physicians may prescribe Tricor for patients with Fredrickson Type IV and Type V hyperlipidemia patterns. The medication is often considered when triglyceride levels exceed 500 mg/dL, particularly when there is concern for pancreatitis risk. Treatment decisions should always be based on comprehensive lipid profiling and individual patient risk assessment.

Dosage and direction

The recommended dosage of Tricor is 145 mg once daily with meals. For patients with renal impairment or elderly patients, the initial dose should be 48 mg daily, with possible titration based on response and tolerance. Administration should always occur with food to maximize absorption. Dose adjustments may be necessary based on lipid response and safety parameters. Regular monitoring of lipid levels should guide long-term dosing decisions. Patients should be instructed to swallow tablets whole and not to crush or chew them. Treatment duration is typically long-term, contingent upon therapeutic response and tolerability.

Precautions

Regular monitoring of liver function tests is required before initiation and during therapy. Pancreatitis may develop despite triglyceride reduction, particularly if levels remain significantly elevated. Tricor may increase cholesterol excretion into bile, potentially leading to cholelithiasis. Renal function should be monitored periodically, as drug excretion is primarily renal. Muscle toxicity, including myositis and rhabdomyolysis, may occur, particularly when used with other lipid-lowering agents. Ophthalmological examinations are recommended as fibrates may induce cataract formation. Patients should be advised to report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, weakness, or brownish discoloration of urine immediately.

Contraindications

Tricor is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to fenofibrate or any component of the formulation. It must not be used in patients with hepatic impairment, including primary biliary cirrhosis and unexplained persistent liver function abnormalities. Severe renal impairment, including end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis, represents an absolute contraindication. Concomitant use with repaglinide is contraindicated due to increased risk of severe hypoglycemia. Gallbladder disease represents a contraindication due to increased risk of cholelithiasis. The medication is contraindicated in nursing mothers and should not be used during pregnancy.

Possible side effects

Common adverse reactions include increased liver enzymes, abdominal pain, back pain, headache, and respiratory disorders. Gastrointestinal effects such as nausea, constipation, and diarrhea may occur. Rash and pruritus have been reported in some patients. Less frequent but serious side effects include pancreatitis, hepatitis, rhabdomyolysis, and renal impairment. Thrombocytopenia and anemia may occur in some patients. Photosensitivity reactions and increased homocysteine levels have been observed. Patients may experience increased blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels. Rare cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis have been reported.

Drug interaction

Tricor may potentiate the effects of oral anticoagulants, requiring frequent INR monitoring and possible warfarin dose reduction. Concomitant use with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors increases the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis. Bile acid sequestrants may reduce absorption of Tricor and should be administered at least 2 hours apart. Cyclosporine may increase Tricor exposure and should be used with caution. Enhanced hypoglycemic effects may occur when used with repaglinide (contraindicated) or other antidiabetic medications. Tricor may displace highly protein-bound drugs from their binding sites, potentially altering their pharmacological effects.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, patients should take it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should never double the dose to make up for a missed administration. Consistent daily dosing is important for maintaining stable lipid control, but occasional missed doses are not typically associated with immediate clinical consequences. Patients should be educated about the importance of adherence while understanding proper management of missed doses to avoid unnecessary concern or inappropriate dosing.

Overdose

There is limited experience with Tricor overdose. Supportive measures should be employed with attention to maintaining adequate hydration and monitoring vital signs. Symptomatic treatment should be provided based on clinical presentation. Since Tricor is highly protein-bound, dialysis is unlikely to be effective in removing significant amounts of the drug. Liver function tests and renal function should be monitored closely. There is no specific antidote for fenofibrate overdose. Management should focus on supportive care and treatment of any specific symptoms that may develop. Poison control centers should be contacted for latest management recommendations.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep in the original container with the lid tightly closed to protect from moisture and light. Do not store in bathroom cabinets where humidity levels may fluctuate. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use medication beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. Proper disposal of unused medication should follow local regulations for pharmaceutical waste disposal. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless specifically instructed to do so.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Treatment decisions must be made by qualified healthcare professionals based on individual patient assessment. The prescribing physician should be consulted for complete information regarding indications, dosage, warnings, and precautions. Patients should not alter or discontinue medication without medical supervision. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, medical knowledge evolves and the most current prescribing information should always be consulted.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate that Tricor effectively reduces triglyceride levels by 40-50% and increases HDL cholesterol by 15-20% in most patients. The Fenofibrate Intervention and Event Lowering in Diabetes (FIELD) study showed significant benefits in cardiovascular risk reduction in specific patient populations. Many clinicians report satisfactory results in managing severe hypertriglyceridemia when used appropriately. Patient experiences vary, with some reporting excellent tolerance while others experience gastrointestinal side effects. The convenience of once-daily dosing is frequently cited as a positive aspect of therapy. Long-term adherence rates appear favorable when patients are properly selected and monitored.