Fenofibrate

Nursing pharmacology study reference (NCLEX-style monograph). Numeric values are standard teaching ranges for study and must be verified against current manufacturer labeling before clinical use. This is educational content, not prescribing guidance.

Fenofibrate (brand name Tricor) — Antihyperlipidemic; Fibric acid derivative (fibrate).

Identification

• Therapeutic class: Antihyperlipidemic.
• Pharmacologic class: Fibric acid derivative (fibrate).

Pharmacology

• Mechanism of action: Activates PPAR-alpha, increasing lipoprotein lipase activity to lower triglycerides and modestly raise HDL.
• Onset / peak / duration: Triglyceride effect within weeks.
• Half-life / therapeutic level: Half-life about 20 hours; no routine level.

Clinical use

• Indications: Severe hypertriglyceridemia, mixed dyslipidemia.
• Usual dose, route, frequency: Dose varies by formulation, generally 48 to 160 mg PO once daily.
• Maximum dose / adjustments: Reduce dose in renal impairment; avoid in severe renal or hepatic disease.

Safety

• Contraindications: Severe renal or hepatic disease, gallbladder disease, lactation.
• Black box warning: None.
• Interactions: Statins (rhabdomyolysis risk), warfarin (increased bleeding), cyclosporine, bile acid sequestrants.
• Pregnancy / lactation: Use only if clearly needed; not recommended while breastfeeding.
• High-alert: No.

Adverse effects

• Common side effects: GI upset, elevated transaminases, back pain.
• Serious effects to report: Rhabdomyolysis, gallstones, pancreatitis, hepatotoxicity.
• Antidote / reversal: None.

Nursing process

• Assessment before administration: Lipids, LFTs, renal function, gallbladder history.
• Interventions during therapy: Monitor for muscle and GI symptoms; some forms require food.
• Monitor: Triglycerides, LFTs, renal function, CK if symptomatic.
• Evaluation / expected outcome: Triglyceride reduction.

Patient teaching

• Patient teaching: Follow formulation-specific food instructions.
• Notify provider if: Severe abdominal pain, muscle pain, dark urine.
• Administration tips: Check whether your specific product is taken with food.