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Home > Drug Category > Cholesterol Medications > Lipidil and Equivalent

Lipidil Information

Lipidil (fenofibrate) is a fibrate class medication primarily used as an adjunct to diet and other non-pharmacological treatments (such as exercise and weight control) for the management of various forms of hyperlipidemia (high blood lipid levels). It is indicated for conditions such as primary hypercholesterolemia, mixed dyslipidemia (high LDL and triglycerides with low HDL), and severe hypertriglyceridemia. Fenofibrate works by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARa). This nuclear receptor regulates the expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism. This action leads to a reduction in triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (VLDL), a decrease in total cholesterol and LDL-C, and an increase in HDL-C ("good cholesterol"). Lipidil has also been observed in some studies to slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes and existing diabetic retinopathy.

Lipidil Side Effects

The most common side effects of Lipidil are generally gastrointestinal in nature. They may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, and gas. Other common side effects may include headache, back pain, increased sensitivity to light, and a runny nose or sneezing. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, such as:
• Gallbladder problems: Including gallstones.
• Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis): Severe stomach pain that does not go away.
• Liver problems: Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, light-colored stools, or persistent nausea and vomiting.
• Muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness (myopathy or rhabdomyolysis): This can be severe and may be accompanied by fever or unusual tiredness. This can lead to kidney failure.
• Severe allergic reactions: Rash, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or trouble breathing.
• Severe skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), or drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), can involve blistering, peeling, or a widespread rash.

Lipidil Precautions

Do not use Lipidil if you are allergic to fenofibrate, any of its ingredients, or other fibrate medications, or if you are allergic to peanut or soy products. Do not use Lipidil if you have severe liver damage, severe kidney disease (including if you are on dialysis), acute pancreatitis, or pre-existing gallbladder disease. Lipidil is contraindicated in patients with a history of photoallergic or phototoxic reactions to fibrates or the anti-inflammatory drug ketoprofen. Before starting this medication, inform your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have a history of liver or kidney problems, gallbladder problems, or a history of muscle pain or weakness from other cholesterol-lowering medicines. Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Lipidil can interact with other drugs. It can increase the effects of oral anticoagulants (blood thinners like warfarin), requiring careful monitoring of blood clotting. If you are taking other cholesterol-lowering medications, particularly statins, concurrent use with Lipidil may increase the risk of muscle problems; this combination should only be used in exceptional cases under close medical supervision. Lipidil may interact with colchicine, immunosuppressants (e.g., cyclosporine), and bile acid resins (e.g., cholestyramine or colestipol). It is generally recommended to take bile acid resins at least 1 hour before or 4-6 hours after taking Lipidil. Avoid drinking large quantities of alcohol, as it can increase the risk of liver problems. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Lipidil is generally contraindicated during pregnancy. If you are a woman who could become pregnant, use adequate contraception during treatment. If pregnancy occurs during treatment, discontinue Lipidil and inform your doctor immediately. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is not known if fenofibrate passes into human breast milk. Due to the potential for serious adverse events in nursing infants, breastfeeding is generally contraindicated during treatment with Lipidil and for at least 5 days after the last dose. The safety and effectiveness of Lipidil in pediatric patients have not been established, and its use in children is generally not recommended unless specifically indicated for certain conditions under strict medical supervision.

Use your medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Lipidil is typically taken as an oral tablet once daily. It is often recommended to take it with meals, as fenofibrate is generally better absorbed when taken with food. Swallow the tablet whole; do not break, crush, or chew it. Your doctor may start with a lower dose and gradually adjust it based on your lipid levels and tolerance. Continue using the medication for the full prescribed duration, even if symptoms improve, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Regular blood tests will be necessary to monitor your cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as liver and kidney function, to ensure the medication is working correctly and to detect any unwanted effects. Store Lipidil at room temperature (between 15°C and 30°C or 59°F and 86°F). Protect from heat, direct sunlight, and moisture. Keep all medicines out of reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Lipidil?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Lipidil.