In this Article

• What is fenofibrate (Fenofibrate 40 mg/ 120 mg)?
• What are the possible side effects of fenofibrate?
• What is the most important information I should know about fenofibrate?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking fenofibrate?
• How should I take fenofibrate?
• What happens if I miss a dose?
• What happens if I overdose?
• What should I avoid while taking fenofibrate?
• What other drugs will affect fenofibrate?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking fenofibrate?

You should not use fenofibrate if you have:

• hepatitis or cirrhosis of the liver;
• severe kidney disease; or
• gallbladder disease.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take this medication:

• liver disease;
• kidney disease;
• hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid gland); or
• diabetes.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether fenofibrate is harmful to an unborn baby. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

Fenofibrate should not be used by nursing mothers. Do not take fenofibrate without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take fenofibrate?

Take fenofibrate exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts or for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Some brands of fenofibrate should be taken with meals to help your body better absorb the medicine. Other brands may be taken with or without food. Follow the directions on your medicine label.

Do not take a fenofibrate tablet that has been accidentally chipped or broken.

It is important to take fenofibrate regularly to get the most benefit.

If you also take cholestyramine (Questran) or colestipol (Colestid), take these medicines at least 1 hour after taking fenofibrate, or 4 to 6 hours before taking fenofibrate. Do not take either of these medicines at the same time you take fenofibrate.

Fenofibrate is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.

To be sure this medication is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your liver and gallbladder function may also need to be tested. It is important that you not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Store fenofibrate at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the pills in their original container, along with any moisture-absorbing preservative packet that comes with this medicine.