LIPICARD 200MG

# Fenofibrate 200 mg ## SHORT DESCRIPTION **Fenofibrate 200 mg** is a lipid-lowering medicine belonging to the **fibrate** class. It is used to help manage abnormal levels of fats in the blood, particularly **high triglycerides** and, in some patients, elevated cholesterol. Fenofibrate is generally used alongside a **heart-healthy diet, exercise, weight management, and other lifestyle measures**. It may be prescribed alone or in combination with other cholesterol-lowering medicines when appropriate. ## KEY BENEFITS * Helps lower **high triglyceride levels** * Helps reduce certain types of **cholesterol and blood fats** * May increase **HDL ("good") cholesterol** * Helps improve an abnormal lipid profile * May be useful in patients with significant hypertriglyceridemia * Supports long-term management of cardiovascular risk when combined with appropriate lifestyle measures ## USES / INDICATIONS Fenofibrate 200 mg may be prescribed for: * **Hypertriglyceridemia (high triglycerides)** * Mixed dyslipidemia involving elevated triglycerides and cholesterol * Certain types of abnormal blood lipid levels * Severe hypertriglyceridemia where lowering triglycerides is clinically important Fenofibrate is **not a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle**. ## HOW IT WORKS Fenofibrate activates **peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-α)**. This increases the activity of enzymes involved in the breakdown and clearance of triglyceride-rich particles from the bloodstream. As a result, Fenofibrate can: * Reduce triglycerides * Reduce certain LDL and VLDL particles * Increase HDL cholesterol in some patients * Improve the overall lipid profile ## DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION * Take Fenofibrate **exactly as prescribed by your doctor**. * The appropriate dose depends on the specific Fenofibrate formulation, the patient's lipid levels, kidney function, and other medical conditions. * Some Fenofibrate 200 mg formulations should be taken **with food**, while other formulations can be taken without regard to meals. Follow the instructions on your specific product label. * Swallow the capsule/tablet whole unless your product information specifically allows otherwise. * Take it at approximately the same time each day. * Continue dietary and lifestyle measures recommended by your healthcare professional. * Do not change the dose or stop treatment without medical advice. * Regular blood tests may be required to monitor cholesterol, triglycerides, liver function, and kidney function. **Important:** Fenofibrate products are available in different formulations and strengths that are not always interchangeable on a milligram-for-milligram basis. Follow the exact formulation and dosing instructions supplied with your prescription. ## SIDE EFFECTS Possible side effects include: * Nausea * Abdominal discomfort * Diarrhea * Headache * Dizziness * Mild digestive disturbances * Increased liver enzymes Less common but potentially serious effects include: * **Muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness** * Gallstones or gallbladder problems * Pancreatitis * Liver problems * Kidney function changes * Serious allergic or skin reactions Seek medical attention promptly if you develop unexplained severe muscle pain or weakness, yellowing of the skin or eyes, severe abdominal pain, dark urine, or a serious skin reaction. ## PRECAUTIONS & WARNINGS * Tell your doctor if you have **kidney disease**, as dose adjustment may be necessary. * Inform your doctor if you have **liver disease** or a history of gallbladder disease. * Fenofibrate may increase the risk of **gallstones**. * Report unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, cramps, or weakness, particularly if you are also taking a statin. * Liver and kidney function may need to be monitored during treatment. * Fenofibrate should generally be avoided in patients with significant liver disease or severe renal impairment unless specifically directed by a specialist. * Tell your doctor if you have a history of pancreatitis. * Inform your healthcare professional about all medicines and supplements you take. * Fenofibrate should be used during pregnancy only when specifically considered necessary by a healthcare professional. * Do not use Fenofibrate if you have a known allergy to Fenofibrate or relevant components of the formulation. ## DRUG INTERACTIONS Fenofibrate can interact with several medicines, including: * **Statins** such as atorvastatin, rosuvastatin, or simvastatin, which may increase the risk of muscle toxicity * **Warfarin and other anticoagulants**, because Fenofibrate may increase anticoagulant effects and require closer monitoring * **Cyclosporine**, which may increase the risk of kidney-related adverse effects * Certain other lipid-lowering medicines * Some medicines that affect kidney function Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements before starting Fenofibrate. ## STORAGE INFORMATION * Store at room temperature according to the manufacturer's instructions. * Keep away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. * Keep the medicine in its original packaging. * Keep the container tightly closed when not in use. * Keep out of reach and sight of children. * Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. ## PRESCRIPTION STATUS **Fenofibrate 200 mg is generally a prescription medicine.** It should be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional, particularly because treatment may require monitoring of lipid levels, liver function, and kidney function. ## GENUINE MEDICINE ASSURANCE To help ensure that you receive genuine Fenofibrate 200 mg: * Purchase it from a **licensed and reputable pharmacy**. * Check the medicine name, strength, manufacturer, batch number, and expiry date. * Make sure the packaging is intact and properly sealed. * Do not use products with damaged, altered, or suspicious packaging. * If the medicine appears unusual or you suspect it may be counterfeit, consult a pharmacist before taking it. ## FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ### What is Fenofibrate 200 mg used for? Fenofibrate 200 mg is used to help manage **high triglycerides and certain types of abnormal cholesterol levels**. It is usually used together with dietary and lifestyle changes. ### Is Fenofibrate a cholesterol medicine? Yes. Fenofibrate is a lipid-lowering medicine that primarily reduces **triglycerides** and can also improve other components of the cholesterol profile. ### Does Fenofibrate lower triglycerides? Yes. Fenofibrate is particularly effective at reducing **elevated triglyceride levels**. ### Does Fenofibrate lower LDL cholesterol? Fenofibrate can affect LDL cholesterol, but the response varies depending on the individual's lipid pattern. Its strongest effect is generally on triglycerides. ### Can Fenofibrate increase HDL cholesterol? Yes. Fenofibrate may increase **HDL cholesterol**, although the degree of improvement varies between individuals. ### Is Fenofibrate a statin? No. Fenofibrate belongs to the **fibrate** class, whereas medicines such as atorvastatin and rosuvastatin belong to the statin class. ### Can Fenofibrate be taken with a statin? Fenofibrate may sometimes be prescribed with a statin when clinically appropriate. However, the combination can increase the risk of **muscle-related side effects**, so medical supervision and monitoring are important. ### Does Fenofibrate need to be taken with food? This depends on the specific Fenofibrate formulation. Some formulations are intended to be taken with food, while others are not affected by food. **Follow the instructions for your particular product.** ### How long does Fenofibrate take to lower triglycerides? Changes in triglyceride levels can occur over several weeks. Your doctor may perform a lipid blood test after an appropriate period to assess your response. ### Can I stop Fenofibrate when my cholesterol improves? Do not stop Fenofibrate without consulting your doctor. Improved lipid levels may be the result of treatment, and stopping therapy may cause lipid levels to rise again. ### Does Fenofibrate cause muscle pain? Muscle pain or weakness can occur, although serious muscle injury is uncommon. The risk may be higher when Fenofibrate is combined with certain statins. Report unexplained or severe muscle symptoms to your doctor. ### Can Fenofibrate affect the liver? Yes. Fenofibrate can cause changes in liver enzymes and, rarely, more serious liver problems. Your doctor may monitor liver function during treatment. ### Can Fenofibrate cause kidney problems? Fenofibrate can affect kidney function in some patients and requires particular caution in people with existing kidney disease. Your doctor may monitor kidney function and adjust the dose when necessary. ### Can Fenofibrate cause gallstones? Fenofibrate can increase the risk of **gallstones** in some patients. Contact your doctor if you develop persistent or severe upper abdominal pain. ### Can Fenofibrate be taken during pregnancy? Fenofibrate is generally not routinely used during pregnancy unless a healthcare professional determines that treatment is necessary. Discuss pregnancy or plans for pregnancy with your doctor. ### What should I do if I miss a dose of Fenofibrate? Take the missed dose when you remember unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to compensate for a missed dose. ## MEDICAL DISCLAIMER This information about **Fenofibrate 200 mg** is provided for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Fenofibrate should be used according to the prescribed formulation, dose, and duration. Regular monitoring may be required, particularly for lipid levels, liver function, kidney function, and muscle-related symptoms. Do not start, stop, or change treatment without consulting a qualified healthcare professional.