Tricor: Advanced Lipid Management for Cardiovascular Health

Tricor

Tricor

Price from 47.30 $

Tricor (fenofibrate) is a leading lipid-modifying agent specifically formulated to address complex dyslipidemias. As a fibric acid derivative, it targets multiple lipid parameters through activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα). This medication represents a sophisticated therapeutic approach for patients requiring comprehensive lipid management beyond statin monotherapy. Clinical evidence supports its efficacy in reducing cardiovascular risk factors, particularly in specific patient populations with mixed dyslipidemia.

Features

  • Contains fenofibrate as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
  • Available in multiple dosage formulations (tablets, capsules)
  • PPARα agonist mechanism of action
  • Demonstrated efficacy in clinical trials
  • Manufactured under strict quality control standards
  • Multiple strength options for individualized dosing

Benefits

  • Significantly reduces elevated triglyceride levels by up to 50%
  • Increases HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) levels
  • Modifies LDL cholesterol particle size and density
  • Reduces cardiovascular risk in appropriate patient populations
  • Comprehensive lipid profile improvement
  • Well-established safety profile with extensive clinical experience

Common use

Tricor is primarily indicated as adjunctive therapy to diet for the treatment of adults with severe hypertriglyceridemia. It is also approved for primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia when response to dietary management and other non-pharmacological measures has been inadequate. Physicians often prescribe Tricor for patients with type 2 diabetes who have dyslipidemia and risk factors for coronary artery disease. The medication is particularly valuable for patients who cannot achieve lipid targets with statin therapy alone or who require specialized triglyceride management.

Dosage and direction

The recommended dosage of Tricor varies based on the specific formulation and patient’s lipid parameters. For hypertriglyceridemia: 48-145 mg daily depending on the formulation. For mixed dyslipidemia: 145 mg once daily with meals. Administration should occur with food to enhance bioavailability. Dosage adjustments are necessary for patients with renal impairment (creatinine clearance <50 mL/min): initial dose of 48 mg daily, not to exceed 96 mg daily. Elderly patients may require dose adjustments based on renal function. Regular monitoring of lipid levels is essential, with dosage titration every 4-8 weeks until desired response is achieved.

Precautions

Regular monitoring of liver function tests is mandatory before initiation and periodically during therapy. Patients should be advised to report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness immediately. Pancreatitis may occur in patients with poorly controlled hypertriglyceridemia. Periodic ophthalmological examinations are recommended as fenofibrate may cause cataract formation. Use with caution in patients with gallbladder disease, as fibrates may increase cholesterol excretion into bile. Renal function should be monitored regularly, especially in elderly patients and those with pre-existing renal impairment.

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. Contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment, including those on dialysis. Gallbladder disease represents another contraindication. The medication is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential adverse effects on fetal development and infant health.

Possible side effects

Common adverse reactions include increased liver enzymes (5-12%), abdominal pain (4-6%), back pain (3-4%), and headache (3%). Respiratory effects such as respiratory disorder (6%) and rhinitis (2%) may occur. Less frequent side effects include pancreatitis, hepatitis, cirrhosis, myositis, rhabdomyolysis, and increased creatine phosphokinase. Gastrointestinal disturbances including nausea, constipation, and diarrhea occur in approximately 2-5% of patients. Allergic reactions including rash, urticaria, and photosensitivity have been reported.

Drug interaction

Tricor may potentiate the effects of oral anticoagulants, requiring careful monitoring of prothrombin time and INR. Concomitant use with other fibrates or statins increases the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis. Bile acid sequestrants may reduce absorption of fenofibrate; administration should be separated by at least 2 hours. Cyclosporine may increase fenofibrate exposure. Fenofibrate may increase the hypoglycemic effect of sulfonylureas. Interactions with immunosuppressants and certain antiretroviral drugs have been documented. Always review complete medication profile before initiation.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, patients should take it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should never double the dose to make up for a missed one. Consistency in dosing is important for maintaining stable lipid levels, so establishing a routine (such as taking with the same meal each day) helps prevent missed doses.

Overdose

There is no specific antidote for fenofibrate overdose. Symptoms may include abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and renal impairment. In case of suspected overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment should be initiated immediately. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion occurred recently. Hemodialysis is not effective due to high protein binding. Patients should be monitored for signs of rhabdomyolysis, hepatic injury, and renal impairment. Supportive care including maintenance of renal function and electrolyte balance is essential.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F) with excursions permitted between 15-30°C (59-86°F). Keep container tightly closed and protect from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use if the seal is broken or if the medication appears discolored or degraded. Proper disposal of unused medication through take-back programs is recommended to prevent environmental contamination and accidental ingestion.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Treatment decisions should be made by qualified healthcare professionals based on individual patient circumstances. The prescribing physician should be consulted for complete information about indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and adverse reactions. Patients should not alter or discontinue medication without medical supervision.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate Tricor’s efficacy in lipid management, with particular strength in triglyceride reduction. The Fenofibrate Intervention and Event Lowering in Diabetes (FIELD) study showed significant cardiovascular risk reduction in specific patient populations. Many physicians report satisfactory results in patients with refractory hypertriglyceridemia. Patient reviews often mention improved lipid profiles but note the importance of regular monitoring. The medication receives positive evaluation for its specific action on triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, though specialists emphasize the need for comprehensive cardiovascular risk management beyond lipid modification alone.