Generic Tricor (Fenofibrate)

Introduction

Tricor is a lipid-modifying oral tablet that contains the active compound fenofibrate. It belongs to the class of fibric acid derivatives, which are used to lower elevated levels of triglycerides and to raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. The medication is manufactured in tablet strengths of 160 mg and 200 mg. In addition to its primary indication for severe hypertriglyceridaemia, fenofibrate is sometimes employed off-label for conditions such as mixed dyslipidaemia and certain forms of metabolic syndrome, though these uses have not received formal regulatory approval.

What is Tricor?

Tricor is the brand name for a fenofibrate tablet formulated to treat abnormal blood-lipid concentrations. Fenofibrate was first synthesized in the s and later approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) as a prescription medication for hypertriglyceridaemia. The drug is marketed worldwide under several names, including Tricor, Lofibra, Antara, and Trilipix.

Key points

• Active ingredient: Fenofibrate
• Dosage forms: Oral tablet, 160 mg or 200 mg
• Therapeutic class: Fibric acid derivative (lipid-lowering agent)

How Tricor Works

Fenofibrate activates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α (PPAR-α), a nuclear transcription factor that regulates genes involved in lipid metabolism. Activation of PPAR-α leads to:

• Increased oxidation of fatty acids in liver and muscle, reducing circulating triglycerides.
• Enhanced synthesis of apolipoprotein A-I, the main protein component of HDL, thereby raising HDL-cholesterol levels.
• Modest reduction of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles through increased clearance.

The pharmacodynamic effect begins within a few days, with maximal lipid changes observed after 4-6 weeks of continuous therapy. Fenofibrate has a terminal half-life of approximately 20 hours and is primarily eliminated via biliary excretion after hepatic metabolism.

Conditions Treated with Tricor

• Severe hypertriglyceridaemia (fasting triglycerides ≥ 500 mg/dL). Elevated triglycerides increase the risk of acute pancreatitis. Fenofibrate reduces hepatic VLDL production and accelerates triglyceride clearance, markedly lowering the serum level.

• Familial combined hyperlipidaemia (as part of combination therapy). When used with statins, fenofibrate can address residual triglyceride elevations that statins alone may not control.

• Primary mixed dyslipidaemia (elevated triglycerides with low HDL). The dual effect of triglyceride reduction and HDL elevation makes fenofibrate a useful adjunct in patients who do not achieve target lipid goals with statins alone.

These indications are supported by FDA and EMA prescribing information and by large clinical trials such as the FIELD (Fenofibrate Intervention and Event Lowering in Diabetes) study.

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Tricor

• Management of metabolic syndrome components. Small-scale studies have shown modest improvements in insulin sensitivity and reduction of inflammatory markers when fenofibrate is added to lifestyle therapy. These findings are not sufficient for regulatory approval, and treatment should only be considered under specialist supervision.

• Prevention of diabetic retinopathy progression. The ACCORD Eye sub-analysis suggested a slower progression of retinopathy in patients receiving fenofibrate, but the result was secondary and not conclusive.

• Adjunctive therapy in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Pilot trials reported reductions in hepatic steatosis scores, yet larger randomized studies are pending.

Disclaimer: Off-label applications have not been evaluated for safety and efficacy by the FDA or EMA. Any such use must be overseen by a qualified healthcare professional.

Is Tricor the Right Medication for You?

Tricor is appropriate for adults with documented severe hypertriglyceridaemia who have not responded adequately to dietary modifications. It is also considered when triglyceride levels remain elevated despite maximally tolerated statin therapy.

Typical candidates

• Patients with fasting triglycerides ≥ 500 mg/dL.
• Individuals with familial forms of combined hyperlipidaemia.
• Adults with type 2 diabetes and persistent mixed dyslipidaemia after statin optimization.

Contraindications

• Severe hepatic impairment (ALT/AST > 3 × ULN).
• End-stage renal disease (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min).
• Known hypersensitivity to fenofibrate or any excipients.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women (category C; benefits must outweigh potential risks).

Patients with gallbladder disease, active liver disease, or a history of myopathy should be evaluated carefully before initiating therapy.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Gastro-intestinal discomfort (abdominal pain, nausea).
• Elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST).
• Mild increase in serum creatinine.

Rare

• Myopathy, especially when combined with statins.
• Severe skin reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome).
• Hemorrhagic stroke (observed in a small subset of patients with pre-existing risk factors).

Serious

• Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown leading to renal failure).
• Acute liver failure.
• Anaphylaxis.

Drug-Drug Interactions

• Statins (especially simvastatin, lovastatin): Increased risk of myopathy; dose reduction or alternative statin may be required.
• Warfarin: Fenofibrate may potentiate anticoagulant effect; monitor INR closely.
• Cyclosporine: May raise fenofibrate plasma concentration; dose adjustment is advised.

Drug-Food Interactions

• High-fat meals: Enhance fenofibrate absorption; tablets are recommended to be taken with food.
• Alcohol: Excessive intake can exacerbate triglyceride elevation and increase the risk of pancreatitis; limit alcohol consumption while on therapy.

Patients should avoid operating heavy machinery until they know how Tricor affects them, especially if they experience dizziness or visual disturbances.

Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard dosing:

  • 160 mg tablet taken once daily with the main meal, or
  • 200 mg tablet taken once daily with the main meal, based on the prescriber’s assessment of lipid targets and renal function.

• Missed dose:

  • Take the tablet as soon as remembered on the same day, then resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose the following day.

• Overdose:

  • Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or dizziness.
  • Seek immediate medical attention; supportive care and gastric decontamination are standard measures.

Practical precautions

• Swallow tablets whole; do not crush or chew.
• Store at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight.
• Alcohol should be limited, and patients should avoid initiating new vigorous exercise programs without medical guidance during the first weeks of therapy.

FAQ

• What should I do if I travel internationally with Tricor?   Carry the medication in its original labeled container, and keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid temperature extremes. Verify that the destination country permits personal import of fenofibrate, as regulations vary.

• Can Tricor be taken with a low-carbohydrate diet?   A low-carbohydrate diet often lowers triglycerides on its own; fenofibrate can be added safely, but lipid panels should be monitored periodically to avoid overtreatment.

• How does the tablet look, and are there any identifiable markings?   The 160 mg tablet is typically round, orange-brown, and imprinted with “160 FEN”. The 200 mg tablet is similar in shape but bears the imprint “200 FEN”. Inactive ingredients include microcrystalline cellulose and magnesium stearate.

• Is it necessary to fast before taking Tricor?   No fasting is required. In fact, taking the tablet with the main meal improves absorption and reduces gastrointestinal upset.

• Will fenofibrate affect routine blood tests for cholesterol?   Yes, fenofibrate lowers triglycerides and raises HDL-cholesterol, which can change the interpretation of a standard lipid panel. Your clinician will compare results to baseline values taken before therapy.

• Are there specific warnings for patients over 65 years old?   Older adults have a higher incidence of renal impairment and may experience greater increases in serum creatinine. Baseline kidney function should be assessed, and doses may need adjustment.

• Does fenofibrate interfere with drug-testing for employment?   Fenofibrate is not screened for in standard workplace drug tests and does not produce false-positive results for commonly tested substances.

• Can Tricor be used in patients with a history of gallstones?   Fenofibrate can increase the concentration of bile acids, potentially worsening biliary sludge. Patients with known gallstones should be evaluated by a hepatologist before initiating therapy.

• What is the difference between Tricor and older fibrates such as gemfibrozil?   Fenofibrate has a longer half-life, more potent triglyceride-lowering effect, and a lower incidence of drug-drug interactions compared with gemfibrozil. Clinical trials have shown comparable cardiovascular outcomes but better tolerability with fenofibrate.

• How long before I see a change in my triglyceride levels?   Most patients observe a 30 %-50 % reduction after 4-6 weeks of consistent dosing. Lipid labs should be repeated after this interval to assess efficacy and guide any dose adjustments.

Glossary

PPAR-α (Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha)

A nuclear receptor that regulates genes responsible for fatty-acid oxidation; activation by fenofibrate leads to reduced triglyceride synthesis.

Triglyceride

The main form of fat stored in the body; high plasma levels increase the risk of pancreatitis and cardiovascular disease.

Hypertriglyceridaemia

A condition where fasting triglyceride concentrations exceed the normal range, typically > 150 mg/dL, with severe forms > 500 mg/dL.

Biliary excretion

The process by which the liver secretes substances, including metabolites of fenofibrate, into the bile for elimination via the intestines.

Buying Tricor from Our Online Pharmacy

Tricor can be obtained safely through our online pharmacy. We source the generic fenofibrate tablets from licensed, vetted manufacturers who adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). This approach yields a price that is close to the original production cost, making the medication more affordable for patients who face high out-of-pocket expenses.

Key benefits of purchasing through our platform include:

• Verified product quality: Every batch is tested for potency and purity before shipment.
• Discreet, reliable delivery: Orders are packaged securely and delivered within 7 days for express service or approximately 3 weeks via regular airmail, with full tracking.
• Privacy-focused service: As a pharmacy broker, we coordinate with overseas licensed pharmacies while protecting your personal information throughout the process.

Our goal is to provide a trustworthy, cost-effective route for patients who need consistent access to fenofibrate when local pharmacies or insurance formularies are limited.

Disclaimer

The information presented about Tricor is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. All therapeutic decisions, including those concerning off-label applications, should be made under the guidance of a qualified health-care professional. Readers are assumed to be competent adults capable of evaluating health-related information responsibly. Our online pharmacy makes generic fenofibrate available for individuals who may encounter limited access through conventional pharmacies or who seek more affordable alternatives. Always discuss any medication changes with your health-care provider before initiating, altering, or discontinuing treatment.