Description
Fenofibrate, when combined with a balanced diet, aids in reducing “bad” cholesterol and fats like LDL and triglycerides while boosting “good” cholesterol (HDL) in the bloodstream. Its mechanism involves enhancing the activity of a natural enzyme responsible for breaking down fats. Classified under “fibrates,” fenofibrate is particularly effective in lowering triglyceride levels, potentially reducing the risk of pancreas disease. However, it may not necessarily decrease the likelihood of a heart attack or stroke. Consult your healthcare provider to weigh the pros and cons of fenofibrate. Alongside dietary adjustments such as a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet, optimizing the efficacy of this medication can be further facilitated by incorporating lifestyle changes like regular exercise, weight loss (if overweight), and cessation of smoking.
The prescribed dosage of fenofibrate depends on your medical condition and how you respond to the treatment.
Suppose you’re concurrently using specific medications to lower cholesterol, such as bile acid-binding resins like cholestyramine or colestipol. In that case, it’s crucial to take fenofibrate at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after these drugs. This precaution is necessary because these medications can interact with fenofibrate, potentially hindering its absorption by the body.
