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 (PPAR-α), leading to enhanced lipoprotein lipase activity and reduced hepatic production of very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL). This mechanism makes it a cornerstone therapy for patients with hypertriglyceridemia, particularly those at risk for pancreatitis or cardiovascular complications. Clinical evidence supports its role in comprehensive lipid management when used alongside dietary modifications and lifestyle changes. Its targeted action makes it particularly valuable for patients who require specialized intervention beyond statin therapy alone.
Features
- Contains fenofibrate as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
- Available in multiple dosage strengths (48 mg and 145 mg tablets)
- PPAR-α agonist with specific lipid-modifying properties
- Micronized formulation for enhanced bioavailability
- Once-daily dosing regimen for patient convenience
- FDA-approved for treatment of severe hypertriglyceridemia
- Compatible with various statin therapies in appropriate patients
- Manufactured under strict quality control standards
Benefits
- Significantly reduces elevated triglyceride levels by up to 50% in clinical studies
- Increases high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels
- Lowers risk of pancreatitis in patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia
- Provides complementary lipid management when combined with statins
- Offers convenient once-daily dosing to support treatment adherence
- Contributes to comprehensive cardiovascular risk reduction strategies
Common use
Tricor is primarily prescribed for adult patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia (≥500 mg/dL) to reduce the risk of pancreatitis. It is also used as adjunctive therapy to diet in patients with mixed dyslipidemia to address atherogenic lipid abnormalities. Physicians may prescribe it for patients who have not achieved optimal triglyceride control with statin monotherapy or for those who cannot tolerate statins. The medication is typically incorporated into a comprehensive treatment plan that includes medical nutrition therapy, physical activity recommendations, and management of underlying conditions contributing to dyslipidemia, such as diabetes mellitus or metabolic syndrome.
Dosage and direction
The recommended dosage of Tricor should be individualized based on patient response and tolerance. The usual starting dose is 145 mg once daily, though some patients may be initiated at 48 mg daily. Administration should occur with meals to optimize absorption. Dosage adjustments may be necessary for patients with renal impairment, with recommended reductions to 48 mg daily for those with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) below 60 mL/min/1.73 m². Regular monitoring of lipid levels should guide titration, typically assessed after 4-8 weeks of therapy. Patients should swallow tablets whole without crushing or chewing. Treatment should always be accompanied by appropriate dietary management consistent with the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) guidelines.
Precautions
Patients taking Tricor should undergo baseline assessment of renal function and liver enzymes before initiation and periodically during therapy. Regular monitoring of lipid levels is essential to evaluate therapeutic response. Caution is advised in patients with gallbladder disease, as fibrates may increase cholesterol secretion into bile. Hepatic function should be monitored, as transaminase elevations may occur. Patients should be advised to report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness promptly, particularly when used concomitantly with statins. Ophthalmologic examinations are recommended, as fenofibrate may cause cataract formation. Special consideration is needed for elderly patients and those with hypothyroidism, as they may be more susceptible to adverse effects.
Contraindications
Tricor is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to fenofibrate or any component of the formulation. It should not be used in patients with hepatic impairment, including primary biliary cirrhosis and unexplained persistent liver function abnormalities. Contraindications include severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m²) and pre-existing gallbladder disease. The medication is contraindicated in nursing mothers due to potential harm to infants and during pregnancy unless clearly needed. Concomitant use with repaglinide is contraindicated due to increased risk of severe hypoglycemia.
Possible side effects
Common adverse reactions include increased liver enzymes (3-5% of patients), abdominal pain (4.6%), back pain (3.4%), and headache (3.2%). Respiratory effects such as increased cough and rhinitis may occur in approximately 2-3% of patients. Gastrointestinal disturbances including nausea, constipation, and diarrhea have been reported. Less frequent but serious side effects include pancreatitis, hepatitis, cholelithiasis, myopathy, rhabdomyolysis (particularly with concomitant statin use), and renal impairment. Allergic reactions including rash, urticaria, and photosensitivity may occur. Hematologic changes such as decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, and white blood cell count have been observed in clinical trials.
Drug interaction
Tricor may potentiate the effects of oral anticoagulants, requiring careful monitoring of prothrombin time and INR adjustments. Concomitant use with bile acid sequestrants may reduce fenofibrate absorption, necessitating administration spacing by at least 2 hours. Cyclosporine may increase fenofibrate exposure, requiring dosage adjustment. Enhanced risk of myopathy exists when combined with statins, particularly at higher doses. Fenofibrate may increase exposure to some immunosuppressants and antidiabetic medications. Concomitant use with repaglinide is contraindicated due to significant hypoglycemia risk. Caution is advised with other highly protein-bound drugs due to potential displacement interactions.
Missed dose
If a dose of Tricor 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 not double the dose to make up for a missed administration. Consistency in dosing is important for maintaining stable lipid levels, so patients should be counseled on establishing a routine for medication administration. If multiple doses are missed, patients should contact their healthcare provider for guidance rather than attempting to compensate with larger subsequent doses.
Overdose
There is limited experience with Tricor overdose. Symptoms may include abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and reversible liver enzyme elevations. In case of suspected overdose, supportive care should be initiated with gastric lavage if presentation is early after ingestion. Activated charcoal may be administered to reduce absorption. There is no specific antidote for fenofibrate overdose. Hemodialysis is unlikely to be effective due to high protein binding. Management should focus on symptomatic treatment and monitoring for potential hepatic, renal, or muscular complications. Patients should be monitored for at least 24-48 hours with appropriate laboratory assessments including liver function tests, creatinine kinase, and renal function.
Storage
Tricor tablets should be stored at controlled room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) with excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). The medication must be kept in its original container with the lid tightly closed to protect from moisture and light. Tablets should not be stored in bathroom cabinets or other areas with high humidity. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. Proper disposal of unused medication should follow local regulations, typically through medication take-back programs rather than flushing or household trash disposal.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Tricor is a prescription medication that should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual patient responses may vary, and treatment decisions should be based on comprehensive medical evaluation. Patients should not initiate, adjust, or discontinue therapy without consulting their physician. The complete prescribing information contains additional important safety information and should be reviewed before initiating treatment. Healthcare providers should consider the full clinical context and latest clinical guidelines when prescribing this medication.
Reviews
Clinical studies demonstrate Tricor’s efficacy in significantly reducing triglyceride levels, with meta-analyses showing average reductions of 40-50% from baseline. The ACCORD Lipid study demonstrated its value in combination therapy for high-risk diabetic patients. Many clinicians report satisfactory patient outcomes when used appropriately in selected populations. Some reviews note the importance of careful patient selection and monitoring, particularly regarding renal function and muscle symptoms. Long-term outcome data continue to evolve, with ongoing research examining cardiovascular endpoints. Patient satisfaction often relates to convenient dosing and measurable improvements in lipid parameters, though some report gastrointestinal side effects that may affect adherence.