LIPOFEN SR

This medicine contains the active ingredient fenofibrate which belongs to a group of medicines called ‘fibrates’. These medicines are used for the treatment of hyperlipidaemia (occurs when the level of lipids-fats in our blood is above the normal). Some of the problems that hyperlipidaemia can cause are heart disease, stroke, and blood circulation problems. This medicine is prescribed if you have a high level of a lipid called triglyceride, as well as for the treatment of high level of other lipids in the blood so that these problems can be prevented. It can also increase the amount of "good" cholesterol, called high density lipoprotein (HDL). It is necessary to continue a low-fat diet during the treatment.

Is Fenofibrate suitable for me?

Fenofibrate is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• if you are allergic to fenofibrate or other ingredients of this medicine
• if you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding
• if you have liver or kidney problems
• if you have problems with your pancreas
• if you are under 18 years of age
• if you have gallbladder problems

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• have an underactive thyroid
• drink alcohol 
• are over 70 years old
• have had or have a family member with a history of hereditary muscular disorders
• are already taking a fibrate or a statin 
• have poorly controlled diabetes mellitus (type II)
• have nephrotic syndrome
• have a condition which effects the amount of protein in the blood (dysproteinemia)
• have obstructive liver disease
• have kidney problems

Fenofibrate interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Fenofibrate?

This medicine is available in form of a capsule.

You should take fenofibrate exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.

• The usual dose is one capsule per day. It is recommended to take it with food.

Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Also, this medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take two doses together if you miss a dose.

Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Fenofibrate side effects?

Like all medicines fenofibrate can cause side effects, including:

Common:

• nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, wind
• indigestion or stomach pains
• rash, itching, red spots on the skin
• headache, fatigue, dizziness

Uncommon:

• pancreatitis
• blood clots in the lungs causing chest pain and shortness of breath (pulmonary embolism)
• blood clots in the leg, leading to pain, redness or swelling (deep vein thrombosis)
• gallstones

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.