Fenofibrate Dosage Explained: Understanding the Different Strengths and Forms

Are you a medical professional trying to navigate the world of Fenofibrate dosage? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about the different strengths and forms available, as well as how to determine the appropriate dosage for your patients. Say goodbye to confusion and hello to confidence in prescribing this medication. Let's dive in!

Fenofibrate: an overview

Fenofibrate (brand names include Lofibra, Antara, Fenoglide, Lipofen, and Triglide) is a prescription medication used to lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. It belongs to a class of drugs called fibrates. Fenofibrate works by reducing the production of triglycerides in the liver and increasing the removal of LDL (bad) cholesterol from the body. The most common side effects of fenofibrate are stomach upset, gas, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. This medication may also cause dizziness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until to know how fenofibrate affects. Fenofibrate comes in several different strengths and forms including tablets, capsules, and an oral suspension. The usual starting dose is one tablet or capsule (155 mg or 54 mg) taken once daily with meals. The dose may be increased to two tablets or capsules (310 mg or 108 mg) per day if needed. The oral suspension (25 mg/mL) should be taken with food and shaken well before each use. The usual starting dose is 5 mL (250 mg) taken once daily with meals. If patients have kidney disease, doctor's will start on a lower dose of fenofibrate and increase the doses slowly as kidneys adjust to the medication. If patients have liver disease, doctor's will start on a lower dose and increase the doses slowly as liver adjust to the medication.

Dosage forms and strengths

Fenofibrate is available in multiple dosage forms and strengths. The most common form is a tablet, which is available in strengths of 145 mg, 160 mg, 200 mg, and 54 mg. Fenofibrate also comes in capsule form, which is available in strengths of 67 mg and 134 mg. The recommended dose of fenofibrate depends on the patient's individual medical situation. For most adults, the recommended starting dose is 145 mg or 160 mg once daily. Patients with severe renal impairment may require a lower starting dose of 54 mg once daily. Fenofibrate should be taken with food to maximize absorption. Capsules should be swallowed whole; tablets can be swallowed whole or crushed and mixed with water.

Fenofibrate and alcohol

Fenofibrate and alcohol can both increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. If patients take fenofibrate and drink alcohol, it is important to monitor for signs of bleeding, such as dark stools, blood in vomit, or bruising easily. 

Drug interactions

Fenofibrate comes in different strengths and forms. The most common form is a tablet, but it also comes as a capsule, an extended-release tablet, and a suspension. The different strengths of fenofibrate are: 34 mg, 67 mg, 100 mg, 160 mg. 

The most common fenofibrate drug interactions include:

• Fenofibric acid and warfarin (Coumadin) – Fenofibric acid can increase the effects of warfarin, resulting in an increased risk of bleeding. If patients take these medications together, doctor's will closely monitor their warfarin levels.

• Fenofibric acid and statins – Fenofibric acid may increase the level of some statins in your blood. This could lead to serious muscle problems. Doctor's may need to adjust their dose of statins if patients take them with fenofibric acid.

Side effects

There are a few different types of fenofibrate available, and the strengths can vary. The most common side effects with fenofibrate are gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Headache, dizziness, and rash are also possible. If patients experience any severe side effects or symptoms don't improve after a few weeks of treatment, they should talk to the medical professionals priorly.

Storage

There are different strengths and forms of fenofibrate. Fenofibrate comes in three different formulations: microgram (mcg), nanogram (ng), and milligram (mg). Each one is a little different and is meant for different purposes. The most common strength of fenofibrate is 160 mg. This is the standard dose that is prescribed for most people. It is also available in other strengths, such as 54 mg and 267 mg. The higher doses are usually reserved for people who have a lot of cholesterol or triglycerides, or who have a genetic condition that makes them more likely to develop heart disease. Fenofibrate also comes in two different forms: capsules and tablets. The capsules are usually taken once a day, while the tablets can be taken either once or twice a day.

Medical professionals

Fenofibrate is a medication used to treat high cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. It is available in different strengths and forms, and the appropriate dosage for each individual depends on several factors. Medical professionals should be aware of the different strengths and forms of fenofibrate, as well as the factors that affect dosing. Fenofibrate comes in three different strengths: 34 mg, 67 mg, and 200 mg. The 34 mg tablets are the weakest strength and are usually only prescribed for children or people who weigh less than 110 pounds (50 kg). The 67 mg tablets are a moderate strength, and the 200 mg tablets are the strongest. Fenofibrate also comes in two different forms: capsules and tablets. The capsules are absorbed more slowly by the body, so they are typically taken once daily. The tablets are absorbed more quickly, so they are usually taken twice daily. The appropriate dosage of fenofibrate depends on several factors, including age, weight, kidney function, and other medical conditions. For most adults, the recommended starting dose is 34 mg or 67 mg once daily. However, older adults or those with kidney problems may start with a lower dose of 17 mg or 33 mg once daily. Medical professionals should also be aware that fenofibrate can interact with other medications. Therefore, it is important to check for potential drug interactions before prescribing fenofibrate to a patient.

Conclusion

Fenofibrate is an important medication for treating hyperlipidemia and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. There are many dosage forms and strengths available, so it’s important to understand how to use them correctly. By gaining a better understanding of fenofibrate dosing, healthcare providers can ensure that their patients receive the most appropriate therapy based on individual clinical needs. Whether you are just starting out or have been prescribing this drug for years, knowing what doses are available can help you make informed decisions when it comes to prescribing medications for your patients.

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