Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate).
Blood components: Small, temporary decreases in red and white blood cell counts have been observed in people using Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate). Your doctor will check for this with blood tests during the first year of treatment.
Combination therapy: The use of Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate) and "statin" medications (e.g., atorvastatin, lovastatin, Simvastatin) at the same time may increase the risk of muscle-related side effects. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking the two types of medications together.
Gallbladder disease: For some people, Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate) may cause gallstones. If you experience abdominal or stomach pain, gas, nausea, or bloating (especially after eating high-fat foods), contact your doctor.
Kidney function: People with impaired kidney function may be more at risk of certain side effects when taking Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate). Depending on the degree of kidney function impairment, lower doses of Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate) may be needed. Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate) is not recommended for use by people undergoing dialysis treatment.
Liver function: Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate) may affect liver function. Your doctor will monitor this with blood tests. People with current or past liver problems may be more at risk for liver function changes while taking Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate).
Pancreatitis: Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate) can cause the pancreas to become inflamed. If you have a history of pancreatitis, discuss with your doctor how Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Skeletal muscle: Treatment with Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate) has been associated on rare occasions with muscle pain, usually in people with reduced kidney function. Contact your doctor as soon as possible if you notice unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, particularly if you have malaise (a general feeling of illness) or fever.
Pregnancy: Strict birth control methods must be used by women of childbearing age. If you become pregnant despite birth control methods, stop taking Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate) and contact your doctor. Women who plan to become pregnant should stop taking Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate) several months in advance.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate) have not been established for children.
Seniors: Seniors are more likely to have reduced kidney function and may need lower doses of Lipidil Supra (Fenofibrate).
