What is the purpose of prescribing Tricor?
One way Tricor is recommended for use is in conjunction with a diet low in fat, physical activity, and occasionally in combination with other medications to lessen the levels of fatty materials like cholesterol and triglycerides in the bloodstream while promoting an increase in the quantity of HDL (high-density lipoprotein; a form of fatty material that diminishes the chances of heart disease). The accumulation of cholesterol and lipids on the inner lining of the arteries (referred to as atherosclerosis) results in a reduction in blood circulation and consequently, the amount of oxygen supplied to the heart, brain, and various other body organs.
The potential for cardiovascular problems, such as heart disease, chest pain, strokes, and heart attacks, is heightened. Despite the fact that fenofibrate reduces the concentration of lipids in the bloodstream, there is no evidence to suggest that it reduces the likelihood of experiencing heart attacks or strokes. Fenofibrate falls into a group of drugs known as antilipemic agents. Its mechanism of action involves accelerating the natural processes that eliminate cholesterol from the body.
How should this medication be administered?
Fenofibrate is available in the form of a capsule, a delayed-release capsule, and a tablet for oral consumption.
Typically, it's recommended to consume once within a day. Various fenofibrate items, such as Fenoglide, Lipofen, and Lofibra, need to be accompanied by a meal. On the flip side, other labels like Antara, Fibricor, Tricor, Triglide, and Trilipix can be ingested with or without food. Should you be unsure about whether to take your medication with food, seek advice from your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Strictly adhere to the instructions provided on your prescription label, and seek clarification from your healthcare provider or pharmacist for any unclear details. Adhere closely to the directions for consuming fenofibrate, avoiding excess intake or deviation from the prescribed frequency set by your healthcare provider.
At the outset of your treatment regimen, your physician will likely initiate your fenofibrate therapy at a standard dosage, with the potential for adjustments based on the outcomes of diagnostic examinations aimed at assessing the levels of lipids in your bloodstream. In the event of unsatisfactory progress following a 60-day period, your physician may advise discontinuing fenofibrate. Adhere to consuming the enteric-coated tablets intact and refrain from breaking, chewing, or pulverizing them.
Exercise caution with regard to the condition of Triglide tablets, avoiding any utilization of those that exhibit signs of chipping or breakage.
Fenofibrate offers the benefit of reducing the levels of fatty substances in your bloodstream as long as you adhere to the course. It is important to maintain regular intake of fenofibrate, even if you experience no symptoms. Avoid discontinuing the medication without prior consultation with your healthcare provider.
Additional applications of this medication
Tricor may serve other purposes when prescribed. Consult your pharmacist or physician for further details.
What precautions must I take?
Prior to starting fenofibrate treatment, inform both your pharmacist and doctor about any allergies you have to fenofibrate products, other drugs, or any ingredients within the fenofibrate product you are prescribed. Request a list of these ingredients from your pharmacist.
Inform your healthcare provider and pharmacist about all the medications, vitamins, supplements, or herbal products you are currently using or intend to use. Make sure to include any of the following: medications that prevent blood clotting like warfarin; drugs for gout such as colchicine; medications that increase urine production; drugs that regulate heart rate like atenolol, labetalol, metoprolol, nadolol, and propranolol; cholesterol-lowering drugs such as atorvastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin, rosuvastatin, and simvastatin; therapies involving hormones; contraceptives including pills, patches, implants, rings, and injections; and immunosuppressive medications like cyclosporine and tacrolimus.
It is important to inform your healthcare provider about any possible need to adjust the dosage of your prescribed medications, as well as to closely monitor for any potential adverse reactions. When using a bile acid resin like cholestyramine (Questran), colesevelam (WelChol), or colestipol (Colestid), ensure to take it either 1 hour after or 4-6 hours before fenofibrate. Should you have a history of kidney, liver, or gallbladder issues, be sure to disclose this to your healthcare provider, who may advise against the use of fenofibrate in such cases. Additionally, mention any history of excessive alcohol consumption, diabetes, or hypothyroidism to your doctor.
Inform your physician immediately in the event of your pregnancy or any plans to conceive. Should pregnancy occur during fenofibrate consumption, contact your physician promptly. Notify your healthcare provider if you are currently nursing, as fenofibrate usage is not recommended while breastfeeding. Adhere to a diet that is low in fats and cholesterol, following all physical activity and dietary suggestions provided by your physician or nutritionist. For further dietary information, consider visiting the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) website at http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/chol/chol_tlc.pdf.
If a dose slips your mind, remember to take it once it comes back to you. But if it's almost time for the next dose, just skip the missed one and stick to your usual dosing routine. Avoid doubling up to compensate for the oversight.
What kind of adverse reactions might Tricor provoke?
Fenofibrate may result in unwanted reactions. Inform your physician if any of the following discomforts are bothersome or persistent:
Certain side effects can be severe. Should you encounter any of the subsequent symptoms, reach out to your doctor promptly:
Fenofibrate might lead to various adverse reactions. Alert your physician in case you encounter any uncommon issues while using fenofibrate.
In case of a severe side effect, either you or your doctor have the option to submit a notification to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program via the internet (http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch) or over the phone (1-800-332-1088).
What knowledge should I gather concerning the storage and disposal of Tricor?
Maintain Tricor within its original container, securely sealed, and away from children. Preserve it at room temperature and steer clear of excessive heat and moisture (avoid storing it in the bathroom).
Securing medications away from children's grasp is a crucial practice, as numerous storage options lack child-proof features, making it effortless for young ones to access them. To shield against accidental poisoning, remember to always secure safety caps and promptly relocate the medication to a secure area—preferably out of reach and sight of children. Dispose of unnecessary medications properly to prevent ingestion by pets, children, and others.
Do not ever think about flushing Tricor down the toilet. Instead, the most effective method to get rid of your pills is by engaging in a program for the collection of medicines. Reach out to your local waste management authority for details on available collections in your vicinity. Refer to the FDA's resource on how to safely dispose of medications (http://goo.gl/c4Rm4p) if you cannot access a collection program.
In the event of an emergency or overdose
Should an overdose occur, dial the poison control hotline at 1-800-222-1222. You can also find assistance online at https://www.poisonhelp.org/help. If the individual has collapsed, experienced a seizure, is struggling to breathe, or cannot be awakened, make an instant call to 911 for emergency services.
What additional details ought I be familiar with?
Ensure attendance at all medical and laboratory appointments. Your doctor will request specific lab assessments to monitor your body's reaction to fenofibrate.
Do not permit unauthorized persons to handle your medications. Address any queries regarding prescription refills with your pharmacist.
Maintain a meticulously documented inventory of both prescription and non-prescription medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, minerals, and dietary supplements. Bring this list to each medical consultation or hospitalization. This data is crucial to have on hand in unforeseen circumstances.