Several cholesterol medications can be used as a substitute for fenofibrate. Alternatives may include other types of fibrates or other cholesterol medicines, such as statins, bile acid sequestrants, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, or niacin. These are often prescribed when lifestyle modifications alone aren't enough. Because each person responds to medications differently, ask your healthcare provider which of the fenofibrate alternatives are most appropriate for your situation.
An Introduction to Fenofibrate Alternatives
Lifestyle changes are typically the first line of treatment for
lowering cholesterol. However, for some people, treating
high cholesterol or
high triglycerides with a
low cholesterol diet, weight control, and exercise are not enough. If lifestyle changes alone are not sufficient, your doctor can prescribe medications. One such medicine is
fenofibrate (
Triglide™,
Tricor®,
Antara™, or
Lofibra®). For most people, fenofibrate is quite effective in lowering
cholesterol and
triglycerides. It is also generally well tolerated. However,
side effects of fenofibrate can occur, and people may wish to consider an alternative for fenofibrate. Alternatives could include other fibrates or other
cholesterol medicines.
Other Fibrates as Fenofibrate Alternatives
Fenofibrate is part of a class of drugs known as fibric acid derivatives (also known as fibrates).
It works by increasing the production of an enzyme (lipoprotein lipase) that breaks down triglyceride-rich particles (
VLDL) and increases their removal from the body. This causes a decrease in triglyceride levels in the blood. Fenofibrate can also decrease the amount of these particles that are made and released from the liver.
Depending on the type of cholesterol problem you have, fenofibrate may also:
Besides the different brands of fenofibrate, there is one other fibrate available by prescription --
gemfibrozil (
Lopid®).
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