Generic Fenofibrate

Introduction

Fenofibrate is a lipid‑modifying agent prescribed primarily to lower elevated triglycerides and raise high‑density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. In the United Kingdom it is classified under the cholesterol‑lowering drug group and is listed in the British National Formulary (BNF) for the management of mixed dyslipidaemia and familial hypercholesterolaemia when statin therapy alone is insufficient. The active compound is fenofibrate, and the medication is available from a range of manufacturers. It is also employed off‑label for certain secondary indications such as reduction of cardiovascular risk in patients with type 2 diabetes and for the treatment of severe hypertriglyceridaemia that predisposes to pancreatitis.

What is Fenofibrate?

Fenofibrate is the generic version of several well‑known brand‑name products, including Tricor®, Lofibra®, Antara®, Lipanthyl®, and Trilipix®. All of these contain the identical active molecule, fenofibrate, and are bio‑equivalent in terms of efficacy and safety when taken at the recommended dose. Our online pharmacy provides this generic alternative as a cost‑effective treatment option, sourced from reputable manufacturers that meet European Medicines Agency (EMA) standards.

Fenofibrate belongs to the class of fibric acid derivatives (often called fibrates). It was first approved for clinical use in the 197s and has since been formulated in tablets, micronised tablets, and capsule forms to improve absorption. The drug is listed under the Cholesterol medication group in the UK’s medicines regulatory framework.

How Fenofibrate Works

Fenofibrate acts mainly through activation of the nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator‑activated receptor‑α (PPAR‑α). When fenofibrate binds to PPAR‑α, a cascade of genetic transcription occurs that leads to:

• Increased synthesis of lipoprotein lipase and apolipoprotein A‑I, promoting the catabolism of triglyceride‑rich very‑low‑density lipoprotein (VLDL) particles.
• Reduced hepatic production of apolipoprotein C‑III, a protein that normally inhibits lipoprotein lipase, thereby further enhancing triglyceride clearance.
• Up‑regulation of genes involved in fatty‑acid β‑oxidation, which shifts the liver’s metabolism toward burning fatty acids rather than storing them.
• Modest elevation of HDL‑C through increased synthesis of apolipoprotein A‑I and A‑II.

The net therapeutic effect is a marked decrease in serum triglycerides (often 30–50 % reduction) and a modest rise in HDL‑C (5–10 %). Low‑density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol may fall slightly, but fenofibrate is not a primary LDL‑lowering agent. Onset of triglyceride reduction is usually observable within one to two weeks, with maximal effect reached after 4–6 weeks of consistent therapy. The drug’s half‑life is approximately 20 hours, and it is eliminated primarily via renal excretion of unchanged drug and metabolites.

Conditions Treated with Fenofibrate

• Primary hypertriglyceridaemia – Elevated triglycerides (≥ 2.3 mmol/L) that increase the risk of acute pancreatitis. Fenofibrate is the first‑line oral therapy when lifestyle measures are insufficient.
• Mixed dyslipidaemia – Raised triglycerides together with low HDL‑C, common in metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. When statins have achieved target LDL‑C but triglycerides remain high, fenofibrate adds complementary lipid control.
• Familial combined hyperlipidaemia – Genetic condition characterised by simultaneous elevation of triglycerides and LDL‑C; fenofibrate helps normalise triglyceride levels.
• Secondary prevention of cardiovascular events – Evidence from the ACCORD Lipid trial and the FIELD study shows that in patients with type 2 diabetes, fenofibrate can modestly reduce macrovascular events when combined with statin therapy, particularly in those with atherogenic dyslipidaemia (high triglycerides, low HDL‑C).
• Hypercholesterolaemia requiring adjunct therapy – In patients who cannot tolerate maximal statin doses, fenofibrate may be added to achieve overall better lipid profile.

In the UK, approximately 2 % of adults have triglyceride levels above 2.3 mmol/L, and the prevalence rises to 10 % in people with type 2 diabetes. Fenofibrate therefore addresses a substantial public‑health need.

Suitable Candidates for Fenofibrate Treatment

Fenofibrate is most appropriate for patients who meet one or more of the following criteria:

• Triglyceride concentrations ≥ 2.3 mmol/L after ≥ 12 weeks of dietary modification and optimisation of glycaemic control.
• Low HDL‑C (< 1. mmol/L in men, < 1.2 mmol/L in women) combined with moderately elevated LDL‑C despite statin therapy.
• Documented intolerance or contraindication to high‑dose statins, where an alternative lipid‑lowering pathway is needed.
• History of pancreatitis secondary to severe hypertriglyceridaemia, where rapid triglyceride reduction is clinically urgent.

Fenofibrate is not recommended for:

• Patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child‑Pugh class C) because the drug is primarily metabolised in the liver.
• Individuals with end‑stage renal disease (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m²), as accumulation may increase the risk of myopathy.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women, for whom safety data are insufficient.
• Patients with known hypersensitivity to fenofibrate or any of its excipients.

Clinicians should evaluate renal function, liver enzymes, and baseline creatine kinase (CK) before initiating therapy and periodically thereafter.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Gastrointestinal discomfort – nausea, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, and diarrhoea occur in up to 10 % of users.
• Elevated liver enzymes – transient rises in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) or aspartate aminotransferase (AST) are observed in 5–7 % of patients; routine monitoring is advised.
• Mild increase in serum creatinine – typically < 15 % rise, reversible upon discontinuation.
• Headache and dizziness – reported in 3–5 % of individuals, often early in treatment.

Rare

• Myopathy – muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness without CK elevation; incidence < .5 % when fenofibrate is used alone.
• Elevated CK (myositis) – CK levels may rise > 5 times the upper limit of normal; risk increases when combined with statins or other myotoxic drugs.
• Gallstone formation – fibrates can increase cholesterol saturation in bile, contributing to cholelithiasis in susceptible patients.

Serious

• Rhabdomyolysis – severe muscle breakdown with marked CK elevation, acute kidney injury, and possible fatality; incidence is very low (< .01 %) but rises dramatically with concomitant high‑intensity statins. Immediate discontinuation and medical evaluation are mandatory.
• Severe hepatic injury – rare cases of drug‑induced hepatitis or cholestatic liver disease have been reported; persistent ALT/AST > 3 × ULN warrants cessation.
• Hypersensitivity reactions – anaphylaxis, Stevens‑Johnson syndrome, or drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) are exceedingly uncommon but require emergency care.

Clinically Relevant Drug–Drug Interactions

• Statins (especially simvastatin, lovastatin, and high‑dose atorvastatin) – synergistic risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis; dose reduction or selection of a low‑interaction statin (e.g., pravastatin) is recommended.
• Cyclosporine – increases fenofibrate plasma concentrations; co‑administration should be avoided or closely monitored.
• Anticoagulants (warfarin) – fenofibrate may potentiate anticoagulant effect, raising INR; more frequent coagulation monitoring is required.
• Oral hypoglycaemic agents (e.g., sulfonylureas, meglitinides) – fenofibrate can enhance glucose‑lowering effect, potentially causing hypoglycaemia; dose adjustments may be needed.
• Bile‑acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine) – may reduce fenofibrate absorption; separate dosing by at least 1 hour is advised.

Patients should provide a full medication list, including over‑the‑counter supplements (e.g., niacin, omega‑3 fatty acids) to allow thorough interaction assessment.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard adult dosing – 145 mg fenofibrate once daily, taken with a meal to maximise absorption. In the UK, the micronised tablet formulation (145 mg) is most common; some preparations are available as 160 mg or 200 mg capsules for specific indications.
• Renal adjustment – for eGFR 30–59 mL/min/1.73 m², the usual 145 mg dose may be continued with close monitoring; if eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m², fenofibrate is contraindicated.
• Missed dose – take the forgotten tablet as soon as remembered unless the next scheduled dose is within 12 hours; in that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular regimen. Do not double‑dose.
• Overdose – symptoms may include dizziness, nausea, abdominal pain, and hepatic enzyme elevation. There is no specific antidote; management is supportive, focusing on gastrointestinal decontamination if within 1 hour of ingestion and monitoring of liver and renal function. Contact emergency services immediately.

Food and alcohol considerations – a high‑fat meal improves fenofibrate bioavailability, so the medication should be taken with breakfast or the main meal. Excessive alcohol consumption can exacerbate triglyceride elevation and hepatic stress; patients should limit alcohol intake according to NHS guidelines (no more than 14 units per week).

Comorbidities – patients with diabetes should continue routine glucose monitoring, as fenofibrate may modestly improve glycaemic control. Those with hypothyroidism should have thyroid function optimised, as hypothyroidism can blunt triglyceride‑lowering response.

Buying Fenofibrate from Our Online Pharmacy

Fenofibrate can be obtained conveniently from our online pharmacy in the UK. Our service offers several advantages for patients seeking reliable, affordable lipid‑lowering therapy:

• Affordable pricing – generic fenofibrate is supplied at near‑manufacturer cost, providing significant savings compared with brand‑name equivalents.
• Verified quality – all products are sourced from licensed European and international manufacturers that comply with EMA Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards.
• Guaranteed delivery – discreet, reliable shipping is available, with express delivery in 7 days for mainland UK and standard airmail within 3 weeks for remote locations.
• Online‑only accessibility – we operate as a pharmacy‑broker service, partnering with overseas licensed pharmacies to broaden access to medicines that may be unavailable or expensive through traditional channels.
• Privacy‑focused service – packaging is unmarked and shipped in sealed envelopes, respecting patient confidentiality.

For individuals facing limited access to conventional pharmacies, insurance restrictions, or high out‑of‑pocket costs, purchasing fenofibrate through our platform provides a safe, cost‑effective alternative. All orders are processed by qualified pharmacists who verify dosage appropriateness and provide essential drug‑information leaflets.

FAQ

• Is Fenofibrate available in both brand‑name and generic forms in the UK?
  Yes. The medication is marketed under several brand names such as Tricor®, Lofibra®, and Antara®, while generic versions containing the same active compound are widely sold. Generic fenofibrate offers the same therapeutic benefits at a lower price.

• What is the recommended storage condition for fenofibrate tablets?
  Fenofibrate should be stored at a controlled room temperature (15–30 °C), protected from moisture, light, and heat. Keep the product in its original packaging until use, and do not store it in bathrooms or near kitchen stoves.

• Can fenofibrate be taken together with statins safely?
  Co‑administration is common, but the combination raises the risk of muscle toxicity. Physicians often choose a statin with a lower interaction potential (e.g., pravastatin) and monitor CK levels regularly.

• How long does it take for fenofibrate to lower triglycerides?
  A reduction in serum triglycerides is typically noticeable within 1–2 weeks, with the maximal effect reached after 4–6 weeks of consistent dosing.

• Are there any dietary restrictions while using fenofibrate?
  While fenofibrate is taken with a meal to improve absorption, patients should limit alcohol intake and maintain a low‑sugar, low‑saturated‑fat diet to support lipid‑lowering goals.

• What should I do if I miss a dose of fenofibrate?
  Take the missed tablet as soon as you remember unless the next scheduled dose is less than 12 hours away; in that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.

• Does fenofibrate have any effect on blood glucose levels?
  Fenofibrate may modestly improve insulin sensitivity, leading to a small reduction in fasting glucose. However, it is not a substitute for antidiabetic medication, and glucose should still be monitored.

• Is fenofibrate safe for people with mild kidney impairment?
  For patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) between 30–59 mL/min/1.73 m², fenofibrate can be used with close monitoring of renal function. It is contraindicated when eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m².

• Can I travel overseas with fenofibrate tablets?
  Yes. Carry the medication in its original labelled packaging, include a copy of the prescription or a pharmacist’s dispensing record, and be aware of the destination country’s import regulations for personal use medicines.

• Do different regions use different formulations of fenofibrate?
  Formulations can vary; for example, the United States often uses micronised tablets (145 mg), whereas some Asian markets offer capsule forms (160 mg) with different excipients. All approved formulations meet regional regulatory standards for bioequivalence.

• What are the key differences between fenofibrate and niacin for triglyceride lowering?
  Fenofibrate works via PPAR‑α activation, leading to enhanced triglyceride clearance, whereas niacin reduces hepatic VLDL secretion. Fenofibrate typically has fewer flushing side‑effects and a lower impact on glucose metabolism compared with niacin.

• Is fenofibrate detectable in drug‑screening tests?
  Fenofibrate is not a controlled substance and is generally not included in standard occupational drug‑testing panels. However, specialized mass‑spectrometry assays could identify it if specifically requested.

• How does fenofibrate affect cholesterol sub‑fractions?
  The drug primarily lowers triglyceride‑rich VLDL particles, modestly reduces LDL‑C, and raises HDL‑C by increasing apolipoprotein A‑I synthesis. Its impact on small dense LDL particles is less pronounced than that of high‑intensity statins.

• What regulatory body approves fenofibrate for use in the UK?
  The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) authorises fenofibrate products, and they must also meet the European Medicines Agency (EMA) quality guidelines.

• Can I split fenofibrate tablets to adjust the dose?
  Fenofibrate tablets are not scored and should be taken whole. Splitting may result in uneven drug distribution and reduced efficacy.

Glossary

PPAR‑α (Peroxisome proliferator‑activated receptor‑α)

A nuclear receptor that regulates genes involved in lipid metabolism; activation by fenofibrate leads to decreased triglycerides and increased HDL‑C.

Micronised tablet

A formulation in which the active drug is ground to very fine particles to improve oral absorption and bioavailability.

Rhabdomyolysis

A serious condition characterised by rapid breakdown of skeletal muscle, releasing CK, myoglobin, and electrolytes into the bloodstream; can cause acute kidney injury.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Fenofibrate is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Fenofibrate for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.