Fenofibrate

What it is

Fenofibrate is a lipid-lowering drug of the fibrate group. It activates a nuclear receptor (PPAR-alpha) that switches on genes for fat breakdown, which lowers triglycerides substantially and raises HDL. It is used for disordered blood lipids, above all when triglycerides are the main problem.

Used for

• Cholesterol

What to know while taking it

It is taken with food, which improves absorption of the older formulations and settles the stomach. Combined with a statin such as atorvastatin or rosuvastatin it adds to the risk of muscle injury, which is why unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness is worth reporting rather than ignoring. It also potentiates warfarin, so anticoagulation needs closer watching, and because the drug is cleared by the kidneys it calls for caution in kidney disease; triglycerides, creatinine and ALT are the values usually followed.

When to see a doctor

Muscle pain or weakness that has no obvious cause, especially with dark urine, and any unusual bruising or bleeding while also on warfarin, mean seeing a doctor promptly.

Worth knowing

• Report unexplained muscle pain
• Caution with kidney disease

Markers to watch

• Triglycerides
• Creatinine
• ALT