Description:
This medication may also be known as (Lipidil Micro, Lipidil Supra and Lipidil EZ)

Chemical Name: Fenofibrate (fen-oh-FYE-brate)

TRICOR is a prescription medication used along with a proper diet (restriction of cholesterol and fat intake) to help lower "bad" cholesterol and fats (such as LDL, triglycerides) and raise "good" cholesterol (HDL) in the blood. These fibrate medications works by increasing the natural substance (enzyme) that breaks down fats in the blood. When cholesterol and fats accumulate along the walls of your arteries, it decreases blood flow therefore preventing the oxygen supply to your heart, brain, and other parts of your body. Lowering "bad" cholesterol and triglycerides and increasing "good" cholesterol lowers the risk of heart disease and helps prevent strokes and heart attacks.

Manufacturer:
Laboratoires Fournier S.A.

Directions:
TRICOR is generally taken once a day by mouth as directed by your doctor. There are several forms of TRICOR capsules and tablets which provide different doses of the medication. Do not switch between different forms unless directed by your doctor. It is important to take this medication correctly so that the drug has the greatest benefit.

The dosage of TRICOR will be based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Take this medication regularly with food in order to obtain optimal results. Remember to take it at the same time each day. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. It is very important to continue to follow your doctor's advice about diet and exercise. It may take up to 2 months before you get the full benefit of this drug.

NOTE: Do not share this medication with others. Medical tests should be performed periodically to monitor a patient’s progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.

Cautions:
Prior to taking TRICOR, tell your doctor if you have any allergies to this medication or to other "fibrates". This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. It is important to discuss your medical history, especially of kidney disease, gallbladder disease, liver disease and alcohol use with your doctor. If you plan to have surgery, tell your doctor about all medications you may be using including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products. TRICOR is not recommended for use during pregnancy and it is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Due to the possibility of risks to an infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended.

Patients should also be aware that TRICOR:

• has not been shown to reduce the risk of having heart problems
• can cause liver problems - blood tests are needed before and during treatment to check for liver problems
• require regular blood tests to check for kidney problems while taking TRICOR

Side Effects:
Along with the needed effects of TRICOR, it can also cause some unwanted effects. Although not all these side effects may occur, it is important to know about the possibilities. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.

Serious side effects include:

• muscle problems or unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness
• liver problems
• kidney problems
• inflammation (swelling) of the gallbladder or pancreas
• abdominal pain
• nausea, or vomiting
• allergic-type reactions
• blood-clots
• changes in some blood test values

• gas
• headache
• stomach pain
• upset stomach
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• increases in liver or muscle enzymes measured by blood tests
• constipation
• fatigue
• runny nose or allergy like symptoms in the nose