What is Tricor?

Tricor also known as Fenofibrate is used along with a proper diet to help lower "bad" cholesterol and fats (such as LDL, triglycerides) and raise "good" cholesterol (HDL) in the blood. It works by increasing the natural substance (enzyme) that breaks down fats in the blood. Fenofibrate belongs to a group of drugs known as "fibrates." Lowering triglycerides in people with very high triglyceride blood levels may decrease the risk of pancreas disease (pancreatitis). However, fenofibrate might not lower your risk of a heart attack or stroke. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of fenofibrate. In addition to eating a proper diet (such as a low-cholesterol/low-fat diet), other lifestyle changes that may help this medication work better include exercising, losing weight if overweight, and stopping smoking. Consult your doctor for more details.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily.
• Fenofibrate comes in different types of capsules and tablets which provide different amounts of the medication. Do not switch between different forms or brands of this medication unless directed by your doctor
• If you are also taking certain other drugs to lower your cholesterol (bile acid-binding resins such as cholestyramine or colestipol), take fenofibrate at least 1 hour before or at least 4 to 6 hours after taking these medications. These medications can bind to fenofibrate, preventing your body from fully absorbing the drug.
• Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.
• It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high cholesterol/triglycerides do not feel sick.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, gallbladder disease, liver disease (such as biliary cirrhosis, hepatitis), alcohol use.

Also be aware that:

• Because of the possible risk to the infant, breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug and for 5 days after stopping the drug.
• During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side-effects:

• Persistent nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine.
• Muscle pain/tenderness/weakness (especially with fever or unusual tiredness), signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine).
• Easy bleeding/bruising, unusual tiredness.
• Chest pain, sudden pain/redness/swelling usually in the leg, signs of infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away, fever, swollen lymph nodes, chills, cough).
• Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction such as rashes, itching, swelling especially of the face, tongue or throat, severe dizziness or trouble breathing.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What should I avoid while taking Tricor?

Avoid eating foods high in fat or cholesterol, or Tricor will not be as effective. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can raise triglyceride levels and may increase your risk of liver damage.