Tricor: Advanced Lipid Management for Cardiovascular Health
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Synonyms
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Tricor (fenofibrate) is a prescription medication specifically formulated to address significant lipid abnormalities, playing a critical role in comprehensive cardiovascular risk management. As a fibric acid derivative, it primarily targets elevated triglyceride levels and works to optimize the overall lipid profile in adult patients. It is indicated as an adjunct to diet and other therapeutic measures when lifestyle modifications alone prove insufficient for achieving target lipid levels. By effectively modulating key lipid parameters, Tricor contributes to a multifaceted approach in reducing the long-term risks associated with dyslipidemia.
Features
- Active pharmaceutical ingredient: Fenofibrate
- Available in multiple strengths: 48 mg and 145 mg tablets
- Micronized formulation for enhanced bioavailability
- Once-daily dosing regimen for patient convenience
- FDA-approved for specific lipid management indications
- Compatible with many common cardiovascular regimens (with appropriate monitoring)
Benefits
- Significantly reduces elevated serum triglyceride levels, often by 40-55% in responsive patients
- Increases high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) cholesterol, the “good” cholesterol, supporting reverse cholesterol transport
- Modifies low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) particle size and density, potentially reducing atherogenic potential
- Provides comprehensive lipid management as part of a total cardiovascular risk reduction strategy
- Offers convenient once-daily dosing that supports long-term treatment adherence
- Works synergistically with therapeutic lifestyle changes to optimize lipid outcomes
Common use
Tricor is primarily prescribed for the treatment of adults with severe hypertriglyceridemia, typically defined as triglyceride levels ≥500 mg/dL. It is also used to manage primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia when patients have not achieved target lipid levels through diet and other measures alone. Physicians often prescribe Tricor as part of a comprehensive approach to cardiovascular risk management, particularly in patients with metabolic syndrome or type 2 diabetes who frequently present with atherogenic dyslipidemia characterized by high triglycerides, low HDL-C, and small, dense LDL particles.
Dosage and direction
The recommended dosage of Tricor should be individualized based on patient response and tolerance. The usual initial dose is 145 mg once daily, though some patients may be started on 48 mg daily. Administration should occur with or without food, but consistency in timing and conditions is recommended to maintain stable plasma concentrations. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water and not crushed or chewed. Dosage adjustments may be necessary for patients with renal impairment, elderly patients, or those taking concomitant medications that may interact with fenofibrate. Regular monitoring of lipid levels is essential, typically after 4-8 weeks of therapy, to assess efficacy and guide potential dosage adjustments.
Precautions
Before initiating Tricor therapy, physicians should obtain baseline liver function tests, renal function assessment, and complete lipid profile. Regular monitoring of transaminase levels is recommended during therapy, particularly during the first 12 months of treatment. Patients should be advised to report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness immediately, as these may signal serious adverse effects. Tricor may increase cholesterol excretion into the bile, potentially leading to cholelithiasis; caution is advised in patients with a history of gallbladder disease. Periodic monitoring of renal function is recommended, and dosage adjustment may be necessary in patients with renal impairment. The medication may cause photosensitivity reactions in some patients, necessitating sun protection measures.
Contraindications
Tricor is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to fenofibrate or any component of the formulation. It must not be used in patients with hepatic impairment, including primary biliary cirrhosis and unexplained persistent liver function abnormalities. The medication is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment, including those on dialysis. Tricor is not recommended for use in patients with pre-existing gallbladder disease. Concomitant use with other fibrates is contraindicated due to increased risk of serious adverse effects, particularly myopathy and rhabdomyolysis. The medication should not be used in nursing mothers due to potential risk to the infant.
Possible side effects
The most common adverse reactions include headache, back pain, abdominal pain, nausea, constipation, and increased liver enzymes. Some patients may experience respiratory disorders such as nasopharyngitis or sinusitis. Musculoskeletal effects may include arthralgia, myalgia, and rarely, rhabdomyolysis. Gastrointestinal disturbances including diarrhea, dyspepsia, and flatulence have been reported. Dermatological reactions may include rash, pruritus, and photosensitivity. Laboratory abnormalities may include increased serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, transaminases, and creatine phosphokinase. Pancreatitis has been reported in some patients, particularly those with severe hypertriglyceridemia at baseline.
Drug interaction
Tricor may potentiate the effects of oral anticoagulants, requiring more frequent monitoring of prothrombin time and INR with appropriate warfarin dosage adjustment. Concomitant administration with bile acid sequestrants may reduce fenofibrate absorption; Tricor should be taken at least 1 hour before or 4-6 hours after these medications. Cyclosporine may increase fenofibrate exposure and should be used with caution. The combination with statins may increase the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis, requiring careful monitoring. Fenofibrate may increase the exposure of some glinide medications, potentially enhancing their hypoglycemic effects. The medication may alter the protein binding of other highly protein-bound drugs, though the clinical significance of this interaction is variable.
Missed dose
If a dose of Tricor is missed, patients should take it as soon as they remember, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. Consistency in daily dosing is important for maintaining stable lipid control, so patients should be encouraged to establish a routine for medication administration. If multiple doses are missed, patients should contact their healthcare provider for guidance on resuming therapy.
Overdose
There is limited experience with Tricor overdose in humans. Supportive measures should be employed based on clinical presentation. Since fenofibrate is highly protein-bound, dialysis is unlikely to be effective in removing significant amounts of the medication from circulation. Symptomatic treatment should be provided for any clinical manifestations. Liver function should be monitored, and appropriate supportive care instituted for any signs of hepatic injury. Patients should be monitored for signs of muscle injury, including measurement of creatine phosphokinase levels. Medical toxicology consultation is recommended in cases of significant overdose.
Storage
Tricor tablets should be stored at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). The medication should be kept in its original container with the lid tightly closed to protect from moisture and light. Tablets should not be stored in bathroom cabinets where humidity levels may fluctuate. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use Tricor beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. Proper disposal of unused medication should follow local regulations for pharmaceutical waste.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Tricor is a prescription medication that should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual patient responses may vary, and treatment decisions should be based on comprehensive medical evaluation. Patients should not initiate, discontinue, or change dosage without consulting their physician. The complete prescribing information contains additional important safety information and should be reviewed before initiating therapy.
Reviews
Clinical studies demonstrate that Tricor effectively reduces triglyceride levels by approximately 40-55% in responsive patients while increasing HDL-C by 10-20%. Many patients report improved lipid profiles within 4-8 weeks of initiating therapy. Physicians note that the once-daily dosing regimen supports long-term adherence compared to multiple-daily dosing medications. Some patients report gastrointestinal discomfort during the initial treatment period, which often resolves with continued use. The medication is generally well-tolerated when prescribed appropriately to patients without contraindications. Regular monitoring is essential to ensure both efficacy and safety throughout the treatment course.