High Triglycerides
High levels of
triglycerides (the fat-like substances in the body) in the blood can have many negative effects on the body. They can accumulate on the walls of arteries, which decreases the blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart, brain, and other parts of your body. Hypertriglyceridemia can also increase a person's risk for developing
heart disease,
angina, a
heart attack, and
stroke.
Very high levels of this fat-like substance can produce a condition known as
pancreatitis (inflammation of the
pancreas). Pancreatitis can be quite painful, and sometimes causes serious health problems.
Fenofibrate has been licensed for the treatment of
high triglycerides in addition to diet and exercise. It works by increasing the breakdown and removal of these fat-like substances so there are less in the body.
Fenofibrate can actually cause an increase in
LDL cholesterol (
bad cholesterol) for people with very high levels of triglycerides (greater than 350 mg/dL). Therefore, fenofibrate should be used with extreme caution or not at all for people with this condition who also have high levels of LDL cholesterol.
Fenofibrate: One Aspect of Treatment
A plan to lower triglyceride and
cholesterol levels typically begins with lifestyle modifications. This includes a diet low in cholesterol and saturated fats, limited alcohol use, weight loss, and exercise. If lifestyle changes alone do not lower triglyceride or
cholesterol levels to a desirable amount, certain medications, such as fenofibrate, may be necessary.
Since fenofibrate can lower both LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels (along with lowering total cholesterol and increasing
HDL), a person can decrease his or her risk of developing certain health problems in the future.
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