Tricor: Advanced Lipid Management for Cardiovascular Health
Tricor
Tricor (fenofibrate) is a prescription medication specifically formulated to address dyslipidemia by effectively lowering elevated triglyceride levels and optimizing overall lipid profiles. As a member of the fibrate class, it works by activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), leading to increased lipolysis and elimination of triglyceride-rich particles from plasma. Clinically proven to reduce cardiovascular risk factors, it is often indicated for patients with hypertriglyceridemia, particularly those who have not achieved target levels through diet and lifestyle modifications alone. Its mechanism supports comprehensive metabolic management when used under appropriate medical supervision.
Features
- Contains fenofibrate as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
- 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 treatment of severe hypertriglyceridemia
- Compatible with standard lipid-lowering diets
Benefits
- Significantly reduces serum triglyceride levels by up to 50% in responsive patients
- Increases high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels
- May reduce cardiovascular event risk in appropriate patient populations
- Helps manage atherogenic dyslipidemia often associated with metabolic syndrome
- Supports overall lipid profile optimization when statins are contraindicated or insufficient
- Demonstrates anti-inflammatory and endothelial protective effects
Common use
Tricor is primarily prescribed for adult patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia (triglycerides ≥500 mg/dL) to prevent pancreatitis. It is also used as adjunctive therapy to diet in combination with statins to reduce triglyceride levels and increase HDL-C in patients with mixed dyslipidemia. Additionally, it may be indicated for patients with primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia when statin therapy is not tolerated or contraindicated. Clinical decisions should consider individual patient risk factors and treatment goals.
Dosage and direction
The recommended dosage is 145 mg once daily with meals. For patients with renal impairment (eGFR 30-59 mL/min/1.73m²), the initial dose should be 48 mg daily, which may be increased to 145 mg if necessary and tolerated. Administration should occur with food to maximize absorption. Regular monitoring of lipid levels is recommended, with dosage adjustments based on patient response and tolerance. Treatment should be initiated alongside appropriate dietary measures.
Precautions
- Regular monitoring of liver function tests is required before initiation and periodically during treatment
- May increase serum creatinine levels; renal function should be assessed periodically
- Can cause cholelithiasis; caution in patients with gallbladder disease
- May increase homocysteine levels; monitor in patients with cardiovascular risk
- Use with caution in elderly patients due to potential age-related renal impairment
- Periodic ophthalmological examinations recommended as fibrates may cause cataract formation
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to fenofibrate or any component of the formulation
- Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²)
- Active liver disease, including primary biliary cirrhosis and unexplained persistent liver function abnormalities
- Pre-existing gallbladder disease
- Nursing mothers
- Concurrent use with repaglinide
Possible side effects
Common (≥2%):
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Increased liver enzymes
- Respiratory disorders
- Back pain
Less common:
- Pancreatitis
- Hepatitis
- Myositis
- Rhabdomyolysis
- Photosensitivity reactions
- Increased creatinine levels
- Thrombocytopenia
- Anemia
Drug interaction
- Increased risk of rhabdomyolysis when combined with statins
- Potentiates effects of oral anticoagulants (warfarin); requires INR monitoring
- May increase cyclosporine levels
- Bile acid sequestrants reduce absorption; administer at least 1 hour before or 4-6 hours after
- Contraindicated with repaglinide due to hypoglycemia risk
- May affect bioavailability of other highly protein-bound drugs
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed dose. Patients should maintain regular dosing schedule and contact their healthcare provider if multiple doses are missed.
Overdose
There is no specific antidote for fenofibrate overdose. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and increased creatinine levels. Treatment should be supportive and symptomatic. Hemodialysis is not expected to be effective due to high protein binding. Contact poison control center or emergency medical services immediately.
Storage
Store at room temperature (20-25°C/68-77°F) in original container. Protect from moisture and light. Keep tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not use after expiration date printed on packaging. Do not transfer to other containers as this may affect stability.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Treatment decisions should be made by qualified healthcare providers based on individual patient characteristics. Always follow prescribed dosage and monitoring recommendations. Report any adverse effects to your healthcare provider promptly.
Reviews
Clinical studies demonstrate Tricor’s efficacy in reducing triglyceride levels by 40-50% and increasing HDL-C by 15-20% in responsive patients. The ACCORD-Lipid trial showed particular benefit in reducing cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes and atherogenic dyslipidemia. Real-world evidence supports its tolerability profile, though monitoring remains essential. Many clinicians report satisfactory results when used according to guidelines in appropriate patient populations.