What is mechanism of action?

mechanism of action is Peroxisome Proliferator-activated Receptor alpha Agonists [MoA]

Fenofibrate (fenofibrate) - Dosing, PA Forms & Info (2026)

Recent Major Changes

Indications and Usage (

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

Fenofibrate tablets is indicated as adjunctive therapy to diet:

• to reduce triglyceride (TG) levels in adults with severe hypertriglyceridemia (TG greater than or equal to 500 mg/dL).

• to reduce elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in adults with primary hyperlipidemia when use of recommended LDL-C lowering therapy is not possible.

Limitations of Use

•

Markedly elevated levels of serum TG (e.g. > 2,000 mg/dL) may increase the risk of developing pancreatitis. The effect of fenofibrate therapy on reducing this risk has not been determined [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].

• Fenofibrate did not reduce coronary heart disease morbidity and mortality in two large, randomized controlled trials of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Clinical Studies (14.4)].

Fenofibrate is a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) alpha agonist indicated as an adjunct to diet:

• to reduce triglyceride (TG) levels in adults with severe hypertriglyceridemia (TG greater than or equal to 500 mg/dL) (1).

• to reduce elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in adults with primary hyperlipidemia when use of recommended LDL-C lowering therapy is not possible (1).

Limitations of Use:

Markedly elevated levels of serum TG (e.g., >2,000 mg/dL) may increase the risk of developing pancreatitis. The effect of fenofibrate therapy on reducing this risk has not been determined (1).
Fenofibrate did not reduce coronary heart disease morbidity and mortality in two large, randomized controlled trials of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (1).

) 6/2025

Dosage and Administration (

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

Severe hypertriglyceridemia
: 48 to 145 mg orally once daily; the dosage should be adjusted according to patient response (2.2).
Primary hyperlipidemia:
145 mg orally once daily (2.2).
Administer as a single dose, at any time of day, with or without food (2.2).
Assess TG when clinically appropriate, as early as 4 to 8 weeks after initiating fenofibrate tablets. Discontinue fenofibrate tablets in patients who do not have an adequate response after 2 months of treatment (2.2).
Renal impairment: Initial dosage of 48 mg orally once daily (2.3).
Geriatric patients:
Select the dosage on the basis of renal function (2.4).

2.1 Prior to Initiation of Fenofibrate Tablets

Assess lipid levels before initiating therapy. Identify other causes (e.g., diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, or medications) of high TG levels and manage as appropriate.
Patients should be placed on an appropriate lipid-lowering diet before receiving fenofibrate tablets, and should continue this diet during treatment with fenofibrate tablets.
In patients with diabetes and fasting chylomicronemia, improve glycemic control prior to considering starting fenofibrate tablets.

2.2 Recommended Dosage and Administration

Severe hypertriglyceridemia:

• The recommended dosage of fenofibrate tablets is 48 mg or 145 mg orally once daily.

• Dosage should be individualized according to patient response, and should be adjusted if necessary following repeat lipid determinations at 4 to 8 week intervals.

Primary hyperlipidemia:

• The recommended dosage of fenofibrate tablets is 145 mg orally once daily.

• Administer fenofibrate tablets as a single dose at any time of day, with or without food.

• Advise patients to swallow fenofibrate tablets whole. Do not crush, break, dissolve, or chew tablets.

• Assess TG when clinically appropriate, as early as 4 to 8 weeks after initiating fenofibrate tablets. Discontinue fenofibrate tablets in patients who do not have an adequate response after 2 months of treatment.

• If a dose is missed, advise patients not to take an extra dose. Resume treatment with the next dose.

• Advise patients to take fenofibrate tablets at least 1 hour before or 4 hours to 6 hours after a bile acid binding resin to avoid impeding its absorption.

2.3 Recommended Dosage in Patients with Renal Impairment

Assess renal function prior to initiation of fenofibrate tablets and periodically thereafter [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
Treatment with fenofibrate tablets should be initiated at a dosage of 48 mg orally once daily in patients with mild to moderately impaired renal function (eGFR 30 to <60 mL/min/1.73m²), and increased only after evaluation of the effects on renal function and TG levels at this dosage.
- Fenofibrate tablets is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²), including those with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and those receiving dialysis [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

2.4 Recommended Dosage in Geriatric Patients

Dosage selection for geriatric patients should be made on the basis of renal function [

see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

) 6/2025

Warnings and Precautions, Mortality and Coronary Heart

Disease Morbidity (

5.1 Mortality and Coronary Heart Disease Morbidity

Fenofibrate did not reduce cardiovascular disease morbidity or mortality in two large, randomized controlled trials of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

[see Clinical Studies (14.4)]

.

Because of chemical, pharmacological, and clinical similarities between fenofibrates, including fenofibrate tablets; pemafibrate; clofibrate; and gemfibrozil; the findings in 5 large randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials with these other fibrate drugs may also apply to fenofibrate tablets.

Pemafibrate did not reduce cardiovascular disease morbidity or mortality in a large, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus on background statin therapy

[see Clinical Studies (14.4)].

In the Coronary Drug Project, a large trial conducted from 1965 to 1985 in men post myocardial infarction, there was no difference in mortality or nonfatal myocardial infarction between the clofibrate group and the placebo group after 5 years of treatment (NCT00000482).

In a trial conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) from 1965 to 1976, men without known coronary artery disease were treated with placebo or clofibrate for 5 years and followed for an additional 1 year. There was a statistically significant, higher age-adjusted all-cause mortality in the clofibrate group compared with the placebo group (5.70% vs. 3.96%, p ≤ 0.01). Excess mortality was due to a 33% increase in non-cardiovascular causes, including malignancy, post-cholecystectomy complications, and pancreatitis.

The Helsinki Heart Study, conducted from 1982 to 1987, was a large (n=4,081) trial of middle-aged men without a history of coronary artery disease. Subjects received either placebo or gemfibrozil for 5 years, with a 3.5-year open extension afterward. Total mortality was numerically but not statistically higher in the gemfibrozil randomization group versus placebo [95% confidence interval (CI) of the hazard ratio (HR) 0.91 to 1.64].

A secondary prevention component of the Helsinki Heart Study treated middle-aged men with gemfibrozil or placebo for 5 years. The HR for cardiac deaths was 2.2, 95% CI, 0.94 to 5.05.

) 6/2025

Indications & Usage

Fenofibrate tablets is indicated as adjunctive therapy to diet:

• to reduce triglyceride (TG) levels in adults with severe hypertriglyceridemia (TG greater than or equal to 500 mg/dL).

• to reduce elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in adults with primary hyperlipidemia when use of recommended LDL-C lowering therapy is not possible.

Limitations of Use

•

Markedly elevated levels of serum TG (e.g. > 2,000 mg/dL) may increase the risk of developing pancreatitis. The effect of fenofibrate therapy on reducing this risk has not been determined [see Warnings and Precautions (

5.7 Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis has been reported in patients taking fenofibrates. This occurrence may represent a failure of efficacy in patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia, a direct drug effect, or a secondary phenomenon mediated through biliary tract stone or sludge formation with obstruction of the common bile duct.

)].

• Fenofibrate did not reduce coronary heart disease morbidity and mortality in two large, randomized controlled trials of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus [see Warnings and Precautions (

5.1 Mortality and Coronary Heart Disease Morbidity

Fenofibrate did not reduce cardiovascular disease morbidity or mortality in two large, randomized controlled trials of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

[see Clinical Studies (14.4)]

.

Because of chemical, pharmacological, and clinical similarities between fenofibrates, including fenofibrate tablets; pemafibrate; clofibrate; and gemfibrozil; the findings in 5 large randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials with these other fibrate drugs may also apply to fenofibrate tablets.

Pemafibrate did not reduce cardiovascular disease morbidity or mortality in a large, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus on background statin therapy

[see Clinical Studies (14.4)].

In the Coronary Drug Project, a large trial conducted from 1965 to 1985 in men post myocardial infarction, there was no difference in mortality or nonfatal myocardial infarction between the clofibrate group and the placebo group after 5 years of treatment (NCT00000482).

In a trial conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) from 1965 to 1976, men without known coronary artery disease were treated with placebo or clofibrate for 5 years and followed for an additional 1 year. There was a statistically significant, higher age-adjusted all-cause mortality in the clofibrate group compared with the placebo group (5.70% vs. 3.96%, p ≤ 0.01). Excess mortality was due to a 33% increase in non-cardiovascular causes, including malignancy, post-cholecystectomy complications, and pancreatitis.

The Helsinki Heart Study, conducted from 1982 to 1987, was a large (n=4,081) trial of middle-aged men without a history of coronary artery disease. Subjects received either placebo or gemfibrozil for 5 years, with a 3.5-year open extension afterward. Total mortality was numerically but not statistically higher in the gemfibrozil randomization group versus placebo [95% confidence interval (CI) of the hazard ratio (HR) 0.91 to 1.64].

A secondary prevention component of the Helsinki Heart Study treated middle-aged men with gemfibrozil or placebo for 5 years. The HR for cardiac deaths was 2.2, 95% CI, 0.94 to 5.05.

) and Clinical Studies (

14.4 Lack of Efficacy in Cardiovascular Outcomes Trials

Fenofibrate did not reduce cardiovascular disease morbidity or mortality in two large, randomized controlled trials of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

The Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes Lipid (ACCORD Lipid) (NCT00000620) trial was a randomized placebo-controlled trial of 5,518 patients (2,765 assigned to receive fenofibrate) with type 2 diabetes mellitus on background statin therapy treated with fenofibrate. The mean age at baseline was 62 years and 31% were female. Overall, 68% were White, 15% were Black or African American; 7% identified as Hispanic or Latino ethnicity. The mean duration of follow-up was 4.7 years. The primary outcome of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), a composite of non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke, and cardiovascular disease death was a HR of 0.92 (95% CI, 0.79 to 1.08) for fenofibrate plus statin combination therapy as compared to statin monotherapy.

The Fenofibrate Intervention and Event Lowering in Diabetes (FIELD) trial was a 5-year randomized, placebo-controlled trial of 9,795 patients (4,895 assigned to receive fenofibrate) with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with fenofibrate. The mean age at baseline was 62 years, 37% were female, and 93% were White. The primary outcome of coronary heart disease events was a HR of 0.89 (95% CI, 0.75 to 1.05) with fenofibrate compared to placebo. The HR for total and coronary heart disease mortality, respectively, was 1.11 (95% CI, 0.95 to 1.29) and 1.19 (95% CI, 0.90 to 1.57) with fenofibrate as compared to placebo.

Because of chemical, pharmacological, and clinical similarities between fenofibrate and pemafibrate, findings in a large randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial with pemafibrate are relevant for fenofibrate tablets.

Pemafibrate did not reduce cardiovascular disease morbidity or mortality in a large, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (TG levels of 200 to 499 mg per deciliter and HDL-C levels of 40 mg per deciliter or lower), on background statin therapy (NCT03071692). The trial was a randomized placebo-controlled trial of 10,497 patients (5,240 assigned to receive pemafibrate) with type 2 diabetes mellitus on background lipid-lowering therapy. The median age at baseline was 64 years and 28% were female. Overall, 86% were White, 5% were Asian, 3% were Black or African American; 19% identified as Hispanic or Latino ethnicity. The median duration of follow-up was 3.4 years. The primary outcome of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), a composite of non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal ischemic stroke, coronary revascularization, and death from cardiovascular causes, was a HR of 1.03(95% CI, 0.91 to 1.15) for pemafibrate plus statin combination therapy as compared to statin monotherapy.

)].

Dosage & Administration

Severe hypertriglyceridemia
: 48 to 145 mg orally once daily; the dosage should be adjusted according to patient response (
2.2 Recommended Dosage and Administration
Severe hypertriglyceridemia:

• The recommended dosage of fenofibrate tablets is 48 mg or 145 mg orally once daily.

• Dosage should be individualized according to patient response, and should be adjusted if necessary following repeat lipid determinations at 4 to 8 week intervals.

Primary hyperlipidemia:

• The recommended dosage of fenofibrate tablets is 145 mg orally once daily.

• Administer fenofibrate tablets as a single dose at any time of day, with or without food.

• Advise patients to swallow fenofibrate tablets whole. Do not crush, break, dissolve, or chew tablets.

• Assess TG when clinically appropriate, as early as 4 to 8 weeks after initiating fenofibrate tablets. Discontinue fenofibrate tablets in patients who do not have an adequate response after 2 months of treatment.

• If a dose is missed, advise patients not to take an extra dose. Resume treatment with the next dose.

• Advise patients to take fenofibrate tablets at least 1 hour before or 4 hours to 6 hours after a bile acid binding resin to avoid impeding its absorption.

).
Primary hyperlipidemia:
145 mg orally once daily (
2.2 Recommended Dosage and Administration
Severe hypertriglyceridemia:

• The recommended dosage of fenofibrate tablets is 48 mg or 145 mg orally once daily.

• Dosage should be individualized according to patient response, and should be adjusted if necessary following repeat lipid determinations at 4 to 8 week intervals.

Primary hyperlipidemia:

• The recommended dosage of fenofibrate tablets is 145 mg orally once daily.

• Administer fenofibrate tablets as a single dose at any time of day, with or without food.

• Advise patients to swallow fenofibrate tablets whole. Do not crush, break, dissolve, or chew tablets.

• Assess TG when clinically appropriate, as early as 4 to 8 weeks after initiating fenofibrate tablets. Discontinue fenofibrate tablets in patients who do not have an adequate response after 2 months of treatment.

• If a dose is missed, advise patients not to take an extra dose. Resume treatment with the next dose.

• Advise patients to take fenofibrate tablets at least 1 hour before or 4 hours to 6 hours after a bile acid binding resin to avoid impeding its absorption.

).
Administer as a single dose, at any time of day, with or without food (
2.2 Recommended Dosage and Administration
Severe hypertriglyceridemia:

• The recommended dosage of fenofibrate tablets is 48 mg or 145 mg orally once daily.

• Dosage should be individualized according to patient response, and should be adjusted if necessary following repeat lipid determinations at 4 to 8 week intervals.

Primary hyperlipidemia:

• The recommended dosage of fenofibrate tablets is 145 mg orally once daily.

• Administer fenofibrate tablets as a single dose at any time of day, with or without food.

• Advise patients to swallow fenofibrate tablets whole. Do not crush, break, dissolve, or chew tablets.

• Assess TG when clinically appropriate, as early as 4 to 8 weeks after initiating fenofibrate tablets. Discontinue fenofibrate tablets in patients who do not have an adequate response after 2 months of treatment.

• If a dose is missed, advise patients not to take an extra dose. Resume treatment with the next dose.

• Advise patients to take fenofibrate tablets at least 1 hour before or 4 hours to 6 hours after a bile acid binding resin to avoid impeding its absorption.

).
Assess TG when clinically appropriate, as early as 4 to 8 weeks after initiating fenofibrate tablets. Discontinue fenofibrate tablets in patients who do not have an adequate response after 2 months of treatment (
2.2 Recommended Dosage and Administration
Severe hypertriglyceridemia:

• The recommended dosage of fenofibrate tablets is 48 mg or 145 mg orally once daily.

• Dosage should be individualized according to patient response, and should be adjusted if necessary following repeat lipid determinations at 4 to 8 week intervals.

Primary hyperlipidemia:

• The recommended dosage of fenofibrate tablets is 145 mg orally once daily.

• Administer fenofibrate tablets as a single dose at any time of day, with or without food.

• Advise patients to swallow fenofibrate tablets whole. Do not crush, break, dissolve, or chew tablets.

• Assess TG when clinically appropriate, as early as 4 to 8 weeks after initiating fenofibrate tablets. Discontinue fenofibrate tablets in patients who do not have an adequate response after 2 months of treatment.

• If a dose is missed, advise patients not to take an extra dose. Resume treatment with the next dose.

• Advise patients to take fenofibrate tablets at least 1 hour before or 4 hours to 6 hours after a bile acid binding resin to avoid impeding its absorption.

).
Renal impairment: Initial dosage of 48 mg orally once daily (
2.3 Recommended Dosage in Patients with Renal Impairment
- Assess renal function prior to initiation of fenofibrate tablets and periodically thereafter [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
- Treatment with fenofibrate tablets should be initiated at a dosage of 48 mg orally once daily in patients with mild to moderately impaired renal function (eGFR 30 to <60 mL/min/1.73m²), and increased only after evaluation of the effects on renal function and TG levels at this dosage.
- Fenofibrate tablets is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73m²), including those with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and those receiving dialysis [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
).
Geriatric patients:
Select the dosage on the basis of renal function (
2.4 Recommended Dosage in Geriatric Patients
Dosage selection for geriatric patients should be made on the basis of renal function [
see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

).

Dosage Forms & Strengths

Fenofibrate tablets, USP are available as film-coated tablets containing 48 mg or 145 mg of fenofibrate.

• 48 mg yellow colored tablets, oval shaped, biconvex film coated tablets, debossed with “C50” on one side and plain on other side.

• 145 mg white colored, oval shaped, biconvex film coated tablets, debossed with “C49” on one side and plain surface on the other side.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Risk Summary

Limited available data with fenofibrate use in pregnant women are insufficient to determine a drug associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. In animal reproduction studies, no evidence of embryo-fetal toxicity was observed with oral administration of fenofibrate in rats and rabbits during organogenesis at doses less than or comparable to the maximum recommended clinical dosage of 145 mg of fenofibrate daily, based on body surface area (mg/m2). Adverse reproductive outcomes occurred at higher doses in the presence of maternal toxicity (see Data). Fenofibrate should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively.

Data

Animal Data

In pregnant rats given oral dietary doses of 14 mg/kg/day, 127 mg/kg/day, and 361 mg/kg/day from gestation day 6 to 15 during the period of organogenesis, no adverse developmental findings were observed at 14 mg/kg/day (less than the clinical exposure at the maximum recommended human dose [MRHD] of 300 mg fenofibrate daily, comparable to 145 mg fenofibrate tablet daily, based on body surface area comparisons). Increased fetal skeletal malformations were observed at maternally toxic doses (361 mg/kg/day, corresponding to 12 times the clinical exposure at the MRHD) that significantly suppressed maternal body weight gain.

In pregnant rabbits given oral gavage doses of 15 mg/kg/day, 150 mg/kg/day, and 300 mg/kg/day from gestation day 6 to 18 during the period of organogenesis and allowed to deliver, no adverse developmental findings were observed at 15 mg/kg/day (a dose that approximates the clinical exposure at the MRHD, based on body surface area comparisons). Aborted litters were observed at maternally toxic doses (≥ 150 mg/kg/day, corresponding to ≥ 10 times the clinical exposure at the MRHD) that suppressed maternal body weight gain.

In pregnant rats given oral dietary doses of 15 mg/kg/day, 75 mg/kg/day, and 300 mg/kg/day from gestation day 15 through lactation day 21 (weaning), no adverse developmental effects were observed at 15 mg/kg/day (less than the clinical exposure at the MRHD, based on body surface area comparisons), despite maternal toxicity (decreased weight gain). Post-implantation loss was observed at ≥ 75 mg/kg/day (≥ 2 times the clinical exposure at the MRHD) in the presence of maternal toxicity (decreased weight gain). Decreased pup survival was noted at 300 mg/kg/day (10 times the clinical exposure at the MRHD), which was associated with decreased maternal body weight gain/maternal neglect.

Contraindications

Fenofibrate tablets are contraindicated in patients with:

• Severe renal impairment, including those with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and those receiving dialysis [

see Clinical Pharmacology (

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

Fenofibrate is a pro-drug of the active chemical moiety fenofibric acid. Fenofibrate is converted by ester hydrolysis in the body to fenofibric acid which is the active constituent measurable in the circulation.

Absorption

The absolute bioavailability of fenofibrate cannot be determined as the compound is virtually insoluble in aqueous media suitable for injection. However, fenofibrate is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract,Peak plasma levels of fenofibric acid occur within 6 to 8 hours after administration.

Effect of Food

Exposure to fenofibric acid in plasma, as measured by Cmax and AUC, is not significantly different when a single 145 mg dose of fenofibrate is administered under fasting or nonfasting conditions.

Distribution

Upon multiple dosing of fenofibrate, fenofibric acid steady state is achieved within 9 days. Plasma concentrations of fenofibric acid at steady state are approximately double of those following a single dose. Serum protein binding was approximately 99% in normal and hyperlipidemic subjects.

Elimination

Fenofibric acid is eliminated with a half-life of 20 hours, allowing once daily administration of fenofibrate tablets.

Metabolism

Following oral administration, fenofibrate is rapidly hydrolyzed by esterases to the active metabolite, fenofibric acid; no unchanged fenofibrate is detected in plasma.

Fenofibric acid is primarily conjugated with glucuronic acid and then excreted in urine. A small amount of fenofibric acid is reduced at the carbonyl moiety to a benzhydrol metabolite which is, in turn, conjugated with glucuronic acid and excreted in urine.

In vivo metabolism data indicate that neither fenofibrate nor fenofibric acid undergo oxidative metabolism (e.g., cytochrome P450) to a significant extent.

Excretion

After absorption, fenofibrate is mainly excreted in the urine in the form of metabolites, primarily fenofibric acid and fenofibric acid glucuronide. After administration of radiolabeled fenofibrate, approximately 60% of the dose appeared in the urine and 25% was excreted in the feces.

Specific Populations

Geriatric Patients

In geriatric volunteers 77 to 87 years of age, the oral clearance of fenofibric acid following a single oral dose of fenofibrate was 1.2 L/h, which compares to 1.1 L/h in young adults. This indicates that a similar dosage regimen can be used in geriatric patients with normal renal function, without increasing accumulation of the drug or metabolites

[see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Use in Specific Populations (8.5)

].

Pediatric Patients

The pharmacokinetics of fenofibrate has not been studied in pediatric populations.

Male and Female Patients

No pharmacokinetic difference between males and females has been observed for fenofibrate.

Racial and Ethnic Groups

The influence of race on the pharmacokinetics of fenofibrate has not been studied, however fenofibrate is not metabolized by enzymes known for exhibiting inter-ethnic variability.

Patients with Renal Impairment

The pharmacokinetics of fenofibric acid were examined in patients with mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment. Patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance [CrCl ≤30 mL/min] or estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] < 30 mL/min/1.73m2) showed a 2.7-fold increase in exposure for fenofibric acid and increased accumulation of fenofibric acid during chronic dosing compared to that of healthy subjects. Patients with mild to moderate renal impairment (CrCl 30 mL/min to 80 mL/min or eGFR 30 to 59 mL/min/1.73m2) had similar exposure but an increase in the half-life for fenofibric acid compared to that of healthy subjects.[

see Dosage and Administration (2.3)

].

Patients with Hepatic Impairment

No pharmacokinetic studies have been conducted in patients with hepatic impairment.

Drug Interaction Studies

In vitro studies using human liver microsomes indicate that fenofibrate and fenofibric acid are not inhibitors of cytochrome (CYP) P450 isoforms CYP3A4, CYP2D6, CYP2E1, or CYP1A2. They are weak inhibitors of CYP2C8, CYP2C19 and CYP2A6, and mild-to-moderate inhibitors of CYP2C9 at therapeutic concentrations.

Table 3 describes the effects of co-administered drugs on fenofibric acid systemic exposure.

Table 4 describes the effects of co-administered fenofibrate or fenofibric acid on other drugs.

Table 3. Effects of Co-Administered Drugs on Fenofibric Acid Systemic Exposure from Fenofibrate Administration
Co-Administered Drug	Dosage Regimen of Co-Administered Drug	Dosage Regimen of Fenofibrate	Changes in Fenofibric Acid Exposure
			AUC	C_max
Lipid-lowering medications
Atorvastatin	20 mg once daily for 10 days	Fenofibrate 160 mg¹once daily for 10 days	↓2%	↓4%
Pravastatin	40 mg as a single dose	Fenofibrate 3 x 67 mg²as a single dose	↓1%	↓2%
Fluvastatin	40 mg as a single dose	Fenofibrate 160 mg¹as a single dose	↓2%	↓10%
Anti-diabetic agents
Glimepiride	1 mg as a single dose	Fenofibrate 145 mg¹once daily for 10 days	↑1%	↓1%
Metformin	850 mg three times daily for 10 days	Fenofibrate 54 mg¹three times daily for 10 days	↓9%	↓6%
Rosiglitazone	8 mg once daily for 5 days	Fenofibrate 145 mg¹once daily for 14 days	↑10%	↑3%
¹fenofibrate oral tablet
²fenofibrate oral micronized capsule

Table 4. Effects of Fenofibrate Co-Administration on Systemic Exposure of Other Drugs
Dosage Regimen of Fenofibrate	Dosage Regimen of Co-Administered Drug	Change in Co-Administered Drug Exposure
		Analyte	AUC	C_max
Lipid-lowering medications
Fenofibrate 160 mg¹once daily for 10 days	Atorvastatin, 20 mg once daily for 10 days	Atorvastatin	↓17%	0%
Fenofibrate 3 x 67 mg²as a single dose	Pravastatin, 40 mg as a single dose	Pravastatin	↑13%	↑13%
		3α-Hydroxyl-iso-pravastatin	↑26%	↑29%
Fenofibrate 160 mg¹as a single dose	Fluvastatin, 40 mg as a single dose	(+)-3R, 5S-Fluvastatin	↑15%	↑16%
Anti-diabetic agents
Fenofibrate 145 mg¹once daily for 10 days	Glimepiride, 1 mg as a single dose	Glimepiride	↑35%	↑18%
Fenofibrate 54 mg¹three times daily for 10 days	Metformin, 850 mg three times daily for 10 days	Metformin	↑3%	↑6%
Fenofibrate 145 mg¹once daily for 14 days	Rosiglitazone, 8 mg once daily for 5 days	Rosiglitazone	↑6%	↓1%
¹fenofibrate oral tablet
²fenofibrate oral micronized capsule

)]

.

• Active liver disease, including those with unexplained persistent liver function abnormalities

[see Warnings and Precautions (

5.2 Hepatotoxicity

Serious drug-induced liver injury (DILI), including liver transplantation and death, has been reported with postmarketing use of fenofibrates, including fenofibrate tablets DILI has been reported within the first few weeks of treatment or after several months of therapy and in some cases has reversed with discontinuation of fenofibrate tablets treatment. Patients with DILI have experienced signs and symptoms including dark urine, abnormal stool, jaundice, malaise, abdominal pain, myalgia, weight loss, pruritus, and nausea. Many patients had concurrent elevations of total bilirubin, serum alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate transaminase (AST). DILI has been characterized as hepatocellular, chronic active, and cholestatic hepatitis, and cirrhosis has occurred in association with chronic active hepatitis.

In clinical trials, an intermediate daily dosage or the maximum recommended daily dosage of fenofibrate have been associated with increases in serum AST or ALT. The incidence of increases in transaminases may be dose related

[see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]

.

Fenofibrate tablets is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease, including those with unexplained persistent liver function abnormalities. Monitor patient’s liver function, including serum ALT, AST, and total bilirubin, at baseline and periodically for the duration of therapy with fenofibrate tablets. Discontinue fenofibrate tablets if signs or symptoms of liver injury develop or if elevated enzyme levels persist (ALT or AST > 3 times the upper limit of normal, or if accompanied by elevation of bilirubin). Do not restart fenofibrate in these patients if there is no alternative explanation for the liver injury.

)

].

• Pre-existing gallbladder disease

[see Warnings and Precautions (

5.5 Cholelithiasis

Fenofibrate may increase cholesterol excretion into the bile, leading to cholelithiasis. If cholelithiasis is suspected, gallbladder studies are indicated. Fenofibrate tablets therapy should be discontinued if gallstones are found. Fenofibrate tablets are contraindicated in patients with pre-existing gallbladder disease.

)]

.

• Hypersensitivity to fenofibrate, fenofibric acid, or any of the excipients in fenofibrate tablets. Serious hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis and angioedema have been reported with fenofibrate

[see Warnings and Precautions (

5.9 Hypersensitivity Reactions

Acute Hypersensitivity

Anaphylaxis and angioedema have been reported with postmarketing use of fenofibrates. In some cases, reactions were life-threatening and required emergency treatment. If a patient develops signs or symptoms of an acute hypersensitivity reaction, advise them to seek immediate medical attention and discontinue fenofibrate tablets. Fenofibrate tablets is contraindicated in patients with a hypersensitivity to fenofibrate, fenofibric acid, or any of the ingredients in fenofibrate tablets.

Delayed Hypersensitivity

Severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions (SCAR), including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, and Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), have been reported with postmarketing use of fenofibrates occurring days to weeks after treatment initiation. The cases of DRESS were associated with cutaneous reactions (such as rash or exfoliative dermatitis) and a combination of eosinophilia, fever, systemic organ involvement (renal, hepatic, or respiratory). Discontinue fenofibrate tablets and treat patients appropriately if SCAR is suspected.

)]

.

Warnings & Precautions

Hepatotoxicity: Serious drug-induced liver injury, including liver transplantation and death, has been reported with fenofibrates, including fenofibrate tablets. Monitor patient’s liver function, including serum ALT, AST, and total bilirubin, at baseline and periodically for the duration of therapy. Discontinue if signs or symptoms of liver injury develop or if elevated enzyme levels persist (
5.2 Hepatotoxicity
Serious drug-induced liver injury (DILI), including liver transplantation and death, has been reported with postmarketing use of fenofibrates, including fenofibrate tablets DILI has been reported within the first few weeks of treatment or after several months of therapy and in some cases has reversed with discontinuation of fenofibrate tablets treatment. Patients with DILI have experienced signs and symptoms including dark urine, abnormal stool, jaundice, malaise, abdominal pain, myalgia, weight loss, pruritus, and nausea. Many patients had concurrent elevations of total bilirubin, serum alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate transaminase (AST). DILI has been characterized as hepatocellular, chronic active, and cholestatic hepatitis, and cirrhosis has occurred in association with chronic active hepatitis.

In clinical trials, an intermediate daily dosage or the maximum recommended daily dosage of fenofibrate have been associated with increases in serum AST or ALT. The incidence of increases in transaminases may be dose related
[see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]
.
Fenofibrate tablets is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease, including those with unexplained persistent liver function abnormalities. Monitor patient’s liver function, including serum ALT, AST, and total bilirubin, at baseline and periodically for the duration of therapy with fenofibrate tablets. Discontinue fenofibrate tablets if signs or symptoms of liver injury develop or if elevated enzyme levels persist (ALT or AST > 3 times the upper limit of normal, or if accompanied by elevation of bilirubin). Do not restart fenofibrate in these patients if there is no alternative explanation for the liver injury.

).
Myopathy and Rhabdomyolysis: Have been reported in patients taking fenofibrates. Risks are increased during co-administration with a statin, in geriatric patients, and in patients with renal impairment or hypothyroidism. Discontinue fenofibrate tablets if markedly elevated CK levels occur or if myopathy is either diagnosed or suspected. Temporarily discontinue fenofibrate tablets in patients experiencing an acute or serious condition at high risk of developing renal failure secondary to rhabdomyolysis. Inform patients of the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis when starting or increasing the fenofibrate tablets dosage. Instruct patients to promptly report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, particularly if accompanied by malaise or fever (
5.3 Myopathy and Rhabdomyolysis
Fenofibrate tablets may cause myopathy [muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness associated with elevated creatine kinase (CK)] and rhabdomyolysis.
Risk Factors for Myopathy

Risk factors for myopathy include age 65 years or older, uncontrolled hypothyroidism, renal impairment, and concomitant use with certain other drugs
[see Drug Interactions (7) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)]
.
Steps to Prevent or Reduce the Risk of Myopathy and Rhabdomyolysis
Data from observational studies indicate that the risk for rhabdomyolysis is increased when fibrates, including fenofibrates, are co-administered with a statin. Avoid concomitant use unless the benefit of further alterations in TG levels is likely to outweigh the increased risk of this drug combination
[see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3), and Clinical Studies (14.4)]
.

Cases of myopathy, including rhabdomyolysis, have been reported with fenofibrates tablets co-administered with colchicine. Consider whether the benefit of using colchicine concomitantly with fenofibrate tablets outweighs the increased risk of myopathy
[see Drug Interactions (7)]
.

Discontinue fenofibrate tablets if markedly elevated CK levels occur or if myopathy is either diagnosed or suspected. Muscle symptoms and CK elevations may resolve if fenofibrate tablets is discontinued. Temporarily discontinue fenofibrate tablets in patients experiencing an acute or serious condition at high risk of developing renal failure secondary to rhabdomyolysis (e.g., sepsis; shock; severe hypovolemia; major surgery; trauma; severe metabolic, endocrine, or electrolyte disorders; or uncontrolled epilepsy).
Inform patients of the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis when starting or increasing the fenofibrate tablets dosage. Instruct patients to promptly report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, particularly if accompanied by malaise or fever.

).
Increases in Serum Creatinine: Monitor renal function in patients with renal impairment taking fenofibrate tablets. Consider monitoring renal function in patients at risk for renal impairment (
5.4 Increases in Serum Creatinine
Increases in serum creatinine have been reported in patients receiving fenofibrates. These increases tend to return to baseline following discontinuation of fenofibrate tablets. The clinical significance of this finding is unknown. Monitor renal function in patients with renal impairment taking fenofibrate tablets. Renal monitoring should also be considered for patients taking fenofibrate at risk for renal insufficiency such as geriatric patients and patients with diabetes. Fenofibrate tablets are contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment, including those with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and those receiving dialysis
[see Dosage and Administration (2.3), Use in Specific Populations (8.6), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]
.

).
Cholelithiasis: Fenofibrate may increase cholesterol excretion into the bile, leading to cholelithiasis. If cholelithiasis is suspected, gallbladder studies are indicated (
5.5 Cholelithiasis
Fenofibrate may increase cholesterol excretion into the bile, leading to cholelithiasis. If cholelithiasis is suspected, gallbladder studies are indicated. Fenofibrate tablets therapy should be discontinued if gallstones are found. Fenofibrate tablets are contraindicated in patients with pre-existing gallbladder disease.

).
Hypersensitivity Reactions: Acute hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis and angioedema, and delayed hypersensitivity reactions, including severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions have been reported postmarketing. Some cases were life-threatening and required emergency treatment. Discontinue fenofibrate tablets and treat appropriately if reactions occur (
5.9 Hypersensitivity Reactions
Acute Hypersensitivity

Anaphylaxis and angioedema have been reported with postmarketing use of fenofibrates. In some cases, reactions were life-threatening and required emergency treatment. If a patient develops signs or symptoms of an acute hypersensitivity reaction, advise them to seek immediate medical attention and discontinue fenofibrate tablets. Fenofibrate tablets is contraindicated in patients with a hypersensitivity to fenofibrate, fenofibric acid, or any of the ingredients in fenofibrate tablets.

Delayed Hypersensitivity

Severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions (SCAR), including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, and Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), have been reported with postmarketing use of fenofibrates occurring days to weeks after treatment initiation. The cases of DRESS were associated with cutaneous reactions (such as rash or exfoliative dermatitis) and a combination of eosinophilia, fever, systemic organ involvement (renal, hepatic, or respiratory). Discontinue fenofibrate tablets and treat patients appropriately if SCAR is suspected.

).

Adverse Reactions

The following serious adverse reactions are described below and elsewhere in the labeling:

• Mortality and coronary heart disease morbidity

[see Warnings and Precautions (

5.1 Mortality and Coronary Heart Disease Morbidity

Fenofibrate did not reduce cardiovascular disease morbidity or mortality in two large, randomized controlled trials of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

[see Clinical Studies (14.4)]

.

Because of chemical, pharmacological, and clinical similarities between fenofibrates, including fenofibrate tablets; pemafibrate; clofibrate; and gemfibrozil; the findings in 5 large randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials with these other fibrate drugs may also apply to fenofibrate tablets.

Pemafibrate did not reduce cardiovascular disease morbidity or mortality in a large, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus on background statin therapy

[see Clinical Studies (14.4)].

In the Coronary Drug Project, a large trial conducted from 1965 to 1985 in men post myocardial infarction, there was no difference in mortality or nonfatal myocardial infarction between the clofibrate group and the placebo group after 5 years of treatment (NCT00000482).

In a trial conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) from 1965 to 1976, men without known coronary artery disease were treated with placebo or clofibrate for 5 years and followed for an additional 1 year. There was a statistically significant, higher age-adjusted all-cause mortality in the clofibrate group compared with the placebo group (5.70% vs. 3.96%, p ≤ 0.01). Excess mortality was due to a 33% increase in non-cardiovascular causes, including malignancy, post-cholecystectomy complications, and pancreatitis.

The Helsinki Heart Study, conducted from 1982 to 1987, was a large (n=4,081) trial of middle-aged men without a history of coronary artery disease. Subjects received either placebo or gemfibrozil for 5 years, with a 3.5-year open extension afterward. Total mortality was numerically but not statistically higher in the gemfibrozil randomization group versus placebo [95% confidence interval (CI) of the hazard ratio (HR) 0.91 to 1.64].

A secondary prevention component of the Helsinki Heart Study treated middle-aged men with gemfibrozil or placebo for 5 years. The HR for cardiac deaths was 2.2, 95% CI, 0.94 to 5.05.

)]

• Hepatoxicity

[see Warnings and Precautions (

5.2 Hepatotoxicity

Serious drug-induced liver injury (DILI), including liver transplantation and death, has been reported with postmarketing use of fenofibrates, including fenofibrate tablets DILI has been reported within the first few weeks of treatment or after several months of therapy and in some cases has reversed with discontinuation of fenofibrate tablets treatment. Patients with DILI have experienced signs and symptoms including dark urine, abnormal stool, jaundice, malaise, abdominal pain, myalgia, weight loss, pruritus, and nausea. Many patients had concurrent elevations of total bilirubin, serum alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate transaminase (AST). DILI has been characterized as hepatocellular, chronic active, and cholestatic hepatitis, and cirrhosis has occurred in association with chronic active hepatitis.

In clinical trials, an intermediate daily dosage or the maximum recommended daily dosage of fenofibrate have been associated with increases in serum AST or ALT. The incidence of increases in transaminases may be dose related

[see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]

.

Fenofibrate tablets is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease, including those with unexplained persistent liver function abnormalities. Monitor patient’s liver function, including serum ALT, AST, and total bilirubin, at baseline and periodically for the duration of therapy with fenofibrate tablets. Discontinue fenofibrate tablets if signs or symptoms of liver injury develop or if elevated enzyme levels persist (ALT or AST > 3 times the upper limit of normal, or if accompanied by elevation of bilirubin). Do not restart fenofibrate in these patients if there is no alternative explanation for the liver injury.

)]

• Myopathy and Rhabdomyolysis

[see Warnings and Precautions (

5.3 Myopathy and Rhabdomyolysis

Fenofibrate tablets may cause myopathy [muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness associated with elevated creatine kinase (CK)] and rhabdomyolysis.

Risk Factors for Myopathy

Risk factors for myopathy include age 65 years or older, uncontrolled hypothyroidism, renal impairment, and concomitant use with certain other drugs

[see Drug Interactions (7) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6)]

.

Steps to Prevent or Reduce the Risk of Myopathy and Rhabdomyolysis

Data from observational studies indicate that the risk for rhabdomyolysis is increased when fibrates, including fenofibrates, are co-administered with a statin. Avoid concomitant use unless the benefit of further alterations in TG levels is likely to outweigh the increased risk of this drug combination

[see Drug Interactions (7), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3), and Clinical Studies (14.4)]

.

Cases of myopathy, including rhabdomyolysis, have been reported with fenofibrates tablets co-administered with colchicine. Consider whether the benefit of using colchicine concomitantly with fenofibrate tablets outweighs the increased risk of myopathy

[see Drug Interactions (7)]

.

Discontinue fenofibrate tablets if markedly elevated CK levels occur or if myopathy is either diagnosed or suspected. Muscle symptoms and CK elevations may resolve if fenofibrate tablets is discontinued. Temporarily discontinue fenofibrate tablets in patients experiencing an acute or serious condition at high risk of developing renal failure secondary to rhabdomyolysis (e.g., sepsis; shock; severe hypovolemia; major surgery; trauma; severe metabolic, endocrine, or electrolyte disorders; or uncontrolled epilepsy).

Inform patients of the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis when starting or increasing the fenofibrate tablets dosage. Instruct patients to promptly report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, particularly if accompanied by malaise or fever.

)]

•

Increases in Serum Creatinine

[see Warnings and Precautions (

5.4 Increases in Serum Creatinine

Increases in serum creatinine have been reported in patients receiving fenofibrates. These increases tend to return to baseline following discontinuation of fenofibrate tablets. The clinical significance of this finding is unknown. Monitor renal function in patients with renal impairment taking fenofibrate tablets. Renal monitoring should also be considered for patients taking fenofibrate at risk for renal insufficiency such as geriatric patients and patients with diabetes. Fenofibrate tablets are contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment, including those with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and those receiving dialysis

[see Dosage and Administration (2.3), Use in Specific Populations (8.6), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]

.

)]

• Cholelithiasis

[see Warnings and Precautions (

5.5 Cholelithiasis

Fenofibrate may increase cholesterol excretion into the bile, leading to cholelithiasis. If cholelithiasis is suspected, gallbladder studies are indicated. Fenofibrate tablets therapy should be discontinued if gallstones are found. Fenofibrate tablets are contraindicated in patients with pre-existing gallbladder disease.

)]

• Increased Bleeding Risk with Coumarin Anticoagulants

[see Warnings and Precautions (

5.6 Increased Bleeding Risk with Coumarin Anticoagulants

Exercise caution when co-administering anticoagulants with fenofibrate tablets because of the potentiation of coumarin-type anticoagulant effects in prolonging the prothrombin time/International Normalized Ratio (PT/INR). To prevent bleeding complications, monitor the PT/INR frequently and adjust the dosage of the anticoagulant until the PT/INR has stabilized

[see Drug Interactions (7)].

)]

• Pancreatitis

[see Warnings and Precautions (

5.7 Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis has been reported in patients taking fenofibrates. This occurrence may represent a failure of efficacy in patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia, a direct drug effect, or a secondary phenomenon mediated through biliary tract stone or sludge formation with obstruction of the common bile duct.

)]

• Hematologic Changes

[see Warnings and Precautions (

5.8 Hematologic Changes

Mild to moderate hemoglobin, hematocrit, and white blood cell decreases have been observed in patients following initiation of therapy with fenofibrates. However, these levels stabilize during long-term administration. Thrombocytopenia and agranulocytosis have been reported in individuals treated with fenofibrate tablets. Periodic monitoring of red and white blood cell counts is recommended during the first 12 months of fenofibrate tablets administration.

)]

• Hypersensitivity reactions

[see Warnings and Precautions (

5.9 Hypersensitivity Reactions

Acute Hypersensitivity

Anaphylaxis and angioedema have been reported with postmarketing use of fenofibrates. In some cases, reactions were life-threatening and required emergency treatment. If a patient develops signs or symptoms of an acute hypersensitivity reaction, advise them to seek immediate medical attention and discontinue fenofibrate tablets. Fenofibrate tablets is contraindicated in patients with a hypersensitivity to fenofibrate, fenofibric acid, or any of the ingredients in fenofibrate tablets.

Delayed Hypersensitivity

Severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions (SCAR), including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, and Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), have been reported with postmarketing use of fenofibrates occurring days to weeks after treatment initiation. The cases of DRESS were associated with cutaneous reactions (such as rash or exfoliative dermatitis) and a combination of eosinophilia, fever, systemic organ involvement (renal, hepatic, or respiratory). Discontinue fenofibrate tablets and treat patients appropriately if SCAR is suspected.

)]

• Venothromboembolic disease

[see Warnings and Precautions (

5.10 Venothromboembolic Disease

In the fenofibrate Intervention and Event Lowering in Diabetes (FIELD) trial, pulmonary embolus (PE) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) were observed at higher rates in the fenofibrate- than the placebo-treated group. Of 9,795 patients enrolled in FIELD, there were 4,900 in the placebo group and 4,895 in the fenofibrate group. For DVT, there were 48 events (1%) in the placebo group and 67 (1.4%) in the fenofibrate group (p = 0.074); and for PE, there were 32 (0.7%) events in the placebo group and 53 (1.1%) in the fenofibrate group (p = 0.022).

In the Coronary Drug Project, a higher proportion of the clofibrate group experienced definite or suspected fatal or nonfatal pulmonary embolism or thrombophlebitis than the placebo group (5.2% vs. 3.3% at five years; p < 0.01).

In the cardiovascular outcome trial with pemafibrate, pulmonary embolism was reported for 37 (0.7%) subjects in the pemafibrate group and 16 (0.3%) subjects in the placebo group. Deep vein thrombosis was reported for 36 (0.7%) subjects in the pemafibrate group and 13 (0.2%) subjects in the placebo group.

)]

• Paradoxical Decreases in HDL Cholesterol Levels

[see Warnings and Precautions (

5.11 Paradoxical Decreases in HDL Cholesterol Levels

There have been postmarketing and clinical trial reports of severe decreases in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels (as low as 2 mg/dL) occurring in patients with and without diabetes initiated on fibrate therapy, including fenofibrate. The decrease in HDL-C is mirrored by a decrease in apolipoprotein A1. This decrease has been reported to occur within 2 weeks to years after initiation of fibrate therapy. The HDL-C levels remain depressed until fibrate therapy has been withdrawn; the response to withdrawal of fibrate therapy is rapid and sustained. The clinical significance of this decrease in HDL-C is unknown. Check HDL-C levels within the first few months after initiation of fenofibrate tablets. If a severely depressed HDL-C level is detected, discontinue fenofibrate tablets and monitor HDL-C until it has returned to baseline. Fenofibrate tablets should not be re-initiated.

)]

Drug Interactions

Table 2 presents clinically important drug interactions with fenofibrate tablets.

Table 2. Clinically Important Drug Interactions with fenofibrate tablets

Statins
Clinical Impact:	Fibrates may cause myopathy when given alone. The risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis is increased with concomitant use of fibrates with statins.
Intervention:	Consider if the benefit of using fenofibrate concomitantly with statin therapy outweighs the increased risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis. If concomitant use is decided, monitor patients for signs and symptoms of myopathy, particularly during initiation of therapy and during upward dosage titration of statin therapy.
Colchicine
Clinical Impact:	Cases of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis have been reported with concomitant use of colchicine with fenofibrates.
Intervention:	Consider if the benefit of using colchicine concomitantly with fenofibrate outweighs the increased risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis. If concomitant use is decided, monitor patients for signs and symptoms of myopathy, particularly during initiation of therapy and during upward dosage titration of colchicine.
Coumarin Anticoagulants
Clinical Impact:	Fibrates may cause potentiation of coumarin-type anticoagulant effects with prolongation of the PT/INR.
Intervention:	Caution should be exercised when coumarin anticoagulants are given in conjunction with fenofibrate. The dosage of the anticoagulants should be reduced to maintain the PT/INR at the desired level to prevent bleeding complications. Frequent PT/INR determinations are advisable until it has been definitely determined that the PT/INR has stabilized
Immunosuppressants
Clinical Impact:	Immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine and tacrolimus can produce nephrotoxicity with decreases in creatinine clearance and rises in serum creatinine, and because renal excretion is the primary elimination route of fibrate drugs including fenofibrate, there is a risk that an interaction will lead to deterioration of renal function.
Intervention:	The benefits and risks of using fenofibrate with immunosuppressants and other potentially nephrotoxic agents should be carefully considered, and the lowest effective dosage employed and renal function monitored.
Bile-Acid Binding Resins
Clinical Impact:	Bile-acid binding resins may bind other drugs given concurrently.
Intervention:	In patients taking a bile acid resin, administer fenofibrate at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after the bile acid resin to avoid impeding its absorption.

Description

Fenofibrate tablets, USP are a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) alpha agonist available as tablets for oral administration. Each tablet contains 48 mg or 145 mg of fenofibrate. The chemical name for fenofibrate is 2-[4-(4-chlorobenzoyl) phenoxy]-2-methyl-propanoic acid, 1-methylethyl ester with the following structural formula:

Referenced Image

The empirical formula is C₂₀H₂₁O₄Cl and the molecular weight is 360.83; fenofibrate is insoluble in water. The melting point is 79 to 82oC. Fenofibrate USP is a white solid which is stable under ordinary conditions.

Inactive Ingredients

Each tablet contains hypromellose 2910, sodium lauryl sulfate, lecithin, sucrose, lactose monohydrate, silicified microcrystalline cellulose, crospovidone type-A, colloidal silicon dioxide and sodium stearyl fumarate.

In addition, individual tablets contain:

48 mg tablets

polyvinyl alcohol, titanium dioxide, talc, iron oxide yellow, lecithin (soya), xanthan gum.

145 mg tablets

polyvinyl alcohol, titanium dioxide, talc, lecithin (soya), xanthan gum.

Pharmacology

The active moiety of fenofibrate tablets are fenofibric acid. The pharmacological effects of fenofibric acid in both animals and humans have been studied through oral administration of fenofibrate.

The lipid-modifying effects of fenofibric acid seen in clinical practice have been explained in vivo in transgenic mice and in vitro in human hepatocyte cultures by the activation of PPAR alpha receptor. Through this mechanism, fenofibric acid increases lipolysis and elimination of triglyceride-rich particles from plasma by activating lipoprotein lipase and reducing production of apoprotein C-III (an inhibitor of lipoprotein lipase activity).

Nonclinical Toxicology

Carcinogenesis

Two dietary carcinogenicity studies have been conducted in rats with fenofibrate. In the first 24- month study, Wistar rats were dosed with fenofibrate at 10 mg/kg/day, 45 mg/kg/day, and 200 mg/kg/day, approximately 0.3 times, 1 time, and 6 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) based on body surface area comparisons (mg/m2). At a dose of 200 mg/kg/day (at 6 times the MRHD), the incidence of liver carcinomas was significantly increased in both sexes. A statistically significant increase in pancreatic carcinomas was observed in males at 1 and 6 times the MRHD; an increase in pancreatic adenomas and benign testicular interstitial cell tumors was observed at 6 times the MRHD in males. In a second 24-month study in a different strain of rats (Sprague-Dawley), doses of 10 mg/kg/day and 60 mg/kg/day (0.3 and 2 times the MRHD) produced significant increases in the incidence of pancreatic acinar adenomas in both sexes and increases in testicular interstitial cell tumors in males at 2 times the MRHD.

A 117-week carcinogenicity study was conducted in rats comparing three drugs: fenofibrate 10 mg/kg/day and 60 mg/kg/day (0.3 and 2 times the MRHD), clofibrate (400 mg/kg/day; 2 times the human dose), and gemfibrozil (250 mg/kg/day; 2 times the human dose) based on mg/m2 surface area. Fenofibrate increased pancreatic acinar adenomas in both sexes. Clofibrate increased hepatocellular carcinoma and pancreatic acinar adenomas in males and hepatic neoplastic nodules in females. Gemfibrozil increased hepatic neoplastic nodules in males and females, while all three drugs increased testicular interstitial cell tumors in males.

In a 21-month study in CF-1 mice, fenofibrate 10 mg/kg/day, 45 mg/kg/day, and 200 mg/kg/day (approximately 0.2 times, 1 time, and 3 times the MRHD on the basis of mg/m2 surface area) significantly increased the liver carcinomas in both sexes at 3 times the MRHD. In a second 18 - month study at 10 mg/kg/day, 60 mg/kg/day, and 200 mg/kg/day, fenofibrate significantly increased the liver carcinomas in male mice and liver adenomas in female mice at 3 times the MRHD.

Electron microscopy studies have demonstrated peroxisomal proliferation following fenofibrate administration to the rat. An adequate study to test for peroxisome proliferation in humans has not been done, but changes in peroxisome morphology and numbers have been observed in humans after treatment with other members of the fibrate class when liver biopsies were compared before and after treatment in the same individual.

Mutagenesis

Fenofibrate has been demonstrated to be devoid of mutagenic potential in the following tests: Ames, mouse lymphoma, chromosomal aberration and unscheduled DNA synthesis in primary rat hepatocytes.

Impairment of Fertility

In fertility studies rats were given oral dietary doses of fenofibrate, males received 61 days prior to mating and females 15 days prior to mating through weaning which resulted in no adverse effect on fertility at doses up to 300 mg/kg/day (approximately 10 times the MRHD, based on mg/m2 surface area comparisons).

Clinical Studies

The effectiveness of fenofibrate has been established in adults with hypertriglyceridemia or primary hyperlipidemia based on adequate and well-controlled trials of other formulations of fenofibrate, referenced below as “fenofibrate.” Dosages of fenofibrate used in these trials were comparable to fenofibrate 145 mg per day

[see Clinical Pharmacology (

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

Fenofibrate is a pro-drug of the active chemical moiety fenofibric acid. Fenofibrate is converted by ester hydrolysis in the body to fenofibric acid which is the active constituent measurable in the circulation.

Absorption

The absolute bioavailability of fenofibrate cannot be determined as the compound is virtually insoluble in aqueous media suitable for injection. However, fenofibrate is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract,Peak plasma levels of fenofibric acid occur within 6 to 8 hours after administration.

Effect of Food

Exposure to fenofibric acid in plasma, as measured by Cmax and AUC, is not significantly different when a single 145 mg dose of fenofibrate is administered under fasting or nonfasting conditions.

Distribution

Upon multiple dosing of fenofibrate, fenofibric acid steady state is achieved within 9 days. Plasma concentrations of fenofibric acid at steady state are approximately double of those following a single dose. Serum protein binding was approximately 99% in normal and hyperlipidemic subjects.

Elimination

Fenofibric acid is eliminated with a half-life of 20 hours, allowing once daily administration of fenofibrate tablets.

Metabolism

Following oral administration, fenofibrate is rapidly hydrolyzed by esterases to the active metabolite, fenofibric acid; no unchanged fenofibrate is detected in plasma.

Fenofibric acid is primarily conjugated with glucuronic acid and then excreted in urine. A small amount of fenofibric acid is reduced at the carbonyl moiety to a benzhydrol metabolite which is, in turn, conjugated with glucuronic acid and excreted in urine.

In vivo metabolism data indicate that neither fenofibrate nor fenofibric acid undergo oxidative metabolism (e.g., cytochrome P450) to a significant extent.

Excretion

After absorption, fenofibrate is mainly excreted in the urine in the form of metabolites, primarily fenofibric acid and fenofibric acid glucuronide. After administration of radiolabeled fenofibrate, approximately 60% of the dose appeared in the urine and 25% was excreted in the feces.

Specific Populations

Geriatric Patients

In geriatric volunteers 77 to 87 years of age, the oral clearance of fenofibric acid following a single oral dose of fenofibrate was 1.2 L/h, which compares to 1.1 L/h in young adults. This indicates that a similar dosage regimen can be used in geriatric patients with normal renal function, without increasing accumulation of the drug or metabolites

[see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Use in Specific Populations (8.5)

].

Pediatric Patients

The pharmacokinetics of fenofibrate has not been studied in pediatric populations.

Male and Female Patients

No pharmacokinetic difference between males and females has been observed for fenofibrate.

Racial and Ethnic Groups

The influence of race on the pharmacokinetics of fenofibrate has not been studied, however fenofibrate is not metabolized by enzymes known for exhibiting inter-ethnic variability.

Patients with Renal Impairment

The pharmacokinetics of fenofibric acid were examined in patients with mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment. Patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance [CrCl ≤30 mL/min] or estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] < 30 mL/min/1.73m2) showed a 2.7-fold increase in exposure for fenofibric acid and increased accumulation of fenofibric acid during chronic dosing compared to that of healthy subjects. Patients with mild to moderate renal impairment (CrCl 30 mL/min to 80 mL/min or eGFR 30 to 59 mL/min/1.73m2) had similar exposure but an increase in the half-life for fenofibric acid compared to that of healthy subjects.[

see Dosage and Administration (2.3)

].

Patients with Hepatic Impairment

No pharmacokinetic studies have been conducted in patients with hepatic impairment.

Drug Interaction Studies

In vitro studies using human liver microsomes indicate that fenofibrate and fenofibric acid are not inhibitors of cytochrome (CYP) P450 isoforms CYP3A4, CYP2D6, CYP2E1, or CYP1A2. They are weak inhibitors of CYP2C8, CYP2C19 and CYP2A6, and mild-to-moderate inhibitors of CYP2C9 at therapeutic concentrations.

Table 3 describes the effects of co-administered drugs on fenofibric acid systemic exposure.

Table 4 describes the effects of co-administered fenofibrate or fenofibric acid on other drugs.

Table 3. Effects of Co-Administered Drugs on Fenofibric Acid Systemic Exposure from Fenofibrate Administration
Co-Administered Drug	Dosage Regimen of Co-Administered Drug	Dosage Regimen of Fenofibrate	Changes in Fenofibric Acid Exposure
			AUC	C_max
Lipid-lowering medications
Atorvastatin	20 mg once daily for 10 days	Fenofibrate 160 mg¹once daily for 10 days	↓2%	↓4%
Pravastatin	40 mg as a single dose	Fenofibrate 3 x 67 mg²as a single dose	↓1%	↓2%
Fluvastatin	40 mg as a single dose	Fenofibrate 160 mg¹as a single dose	↓2%	↓10%
Anti-diabetic agents
Glimepiride	1 mg as a single dose	Fenofibrate 145 mg¹once daily for 10 days	↑1%	↓1%
Metformin	850 mg three times daily for 10 days	Fenofibrate 54 mg¹three times daily for 10 days	↓9%	↓6%
Rosiglitazone	8 mg once daily for 5 days	Fenofibrate 145 mg¹once daily for 14 days	↑10%	↑3%
¹fenofibrate oral tablet
²fenofibrate oral micronized capsule

Table 4. Effects of Fenofibrate Co-Administration on Systemic Exposure of Other Drugs
Dosage Regimen of Fenofibrate	Dosage Regimen of Co-Administered Drug	Change in Co-Administered Drug Exposure
		Analyte	AUC	C_max
Lipid-lowering medications
Fenofibrate 160 mg¹once daily for 10 days	Atorvastatin, 20 mg once daily for 10 days	Atorvastatin	↓17%	0%
Fenofibrate 3 x 67 mg²as a single dose	Pravastatin, 40 mg as a single dose	Pravastatin	↑13%	↑13%
		3α-Hydroxyl-iso-pravastatin	↑26%	↑29%
Fenofibrate 160 mg¹as a single dose	Fluvastatin, 40 mg as a single dose	(+)-3R, 5S-Fluvastatin	↑15%	↑16%
Anti-diabetic agents
Fenofibrate 145 mg¹once daily for 10 days	Glimepiride, 1 mg as a single dose	Glimepiride	↑35%	↑18%
Fenofibrate 54 mg¹three times daily for 10 days	Metformin, 850 mg three times daily for 10 days	Metformin	↑3%	↑6%
Fenofibrate 145 mg¹once daily for 14 days	Rosiglitazone, 8 mg once daily for 5 days	Rosiglitazone	↑6%	↓1%
¹fenofibrate oral tablet
²fenofibrate oral micronized capsule

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How Supplied/Storage & Handling

Fenofibrate tablets, USP are available in two strengths:

48 mg tablets are yellow colored, oval shaped, biconvex film coated tablets, debossed with “C50” on one side and plain surface on the other side.

NDC 33342-339-07 bottle of 30

NDC 33342-339-10 bottle of 90

NDC 33342-339-15 bottle of 500

NDC 33342-339-12 carton of 100 (10 × 10 unit dose)

145 mg tablets are white colored, oval shaped, biconvex film coated tablets, debossed with “C49” on one side and plain surface on the other side.

NDC 33342-340-07 bottle of 30

NDC 33342-340-10 bottle of 90

NDC 33342-340-15 bottle of 500

NDC 33342-340-12 carton of 100 (10 × 10 unit dose)

Storage

Store at 20-25°C (68-77°F); excursions permitted to 15-30°C (59-86°F).

[See USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Keep out of the reach of children. Protect from moisture.

Mechanism of Action

The active moiety of fenofibrate tablets are fenofibric acid. The pharmacological effects of fenofibric acid in both animals and humans have been studied through oral administration of fenofibrate.

The lipid-modifying effects of fenofibric acid seen in clinical practice have been explained in vivo in transgenic mice and in vitro in human hepatocyte cultures by the activation of PPAR alpha receptor. Through this mechanism, fenofibric acid increases lipolysis and elimination of triglyceride-rich particles from plasma by activating lipoprotein lipase and reducing production of apoprotein C-III (an inhibitor of lipoprotein lipase activity).

Data SourceWe receive information directly from the FDA and PrescriberPoint is updated as frequently as changes are made available

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