Patient/caregiver was educated on the precautions to be observed while taking Fenofibrate as follows:
- Observe compliance with regular labs ordered for hepatic function. Fenofibrate use carries a risk of liver damage and compromised liver function and so, should be very cautiously used and liver function closely monitored. Also, if liver function is deficient, metabolism of Fenofibrate could be slowed down. Slowing down of the drug metabolism and excretion can result in increased risk for toxicity and side-effects of the medication. Hepatic damage with Fenofibrate use can result in right upper quadrant abdominal pain, poor digestion, and loss of appetite. Extreme cases of liver injury can result in findings such as, anemia with associated weakness, compromised endurance, and shortness of breath. Individuals can also present symptoms of jaundice, such as, yellowing of skin and white of the eyes, and dark colored urine, secondary to increased bilirubin pigment, due to liver damage and severely affected liver function. Any of these findings suggestive of liver damage should be appropriately reported and investigated.
- Watch closely for development of any allergic reactions to Fenofibrate intake, such as, skin rashes, hives, and rashes. Some patients can present with symptoms of angioneurotic edema, such as, difficulty breathing, swelling of face, lips, throat, and tongue, with consequent difficulty breathing. Seek emergency medical help for such findings, especially with difficulty breathing, for any appropriate measures to be considered.
- Discuss with your doctor regarding any history of liver damage, compromised renal function, and muscle injury and breakdown, as Fenofibrate has potential to cause/exacerbate these conditions.
