Why is this medication prescribed?

Fenoglide is a medication prescribed to treat high cholesterol levels in the blood, particularly elevated levels of triglycerides. It belongs to a class of drugs called fibrates, which work by lowering triglycerides and increasing HDL (good) cholesterol levels in the blood. Lowering triglycerides can reduce the risk of heart disease and pancreatitis.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Fenoglide should be used:

• Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist carefully.
• Take Fenoglide exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than the recommended dose.
• Fenoglide is usually taken once daily, with or without food. It’s important to take it consistently at the same time each day.
• Swallow the tablets whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets.
• Your doctor may start you on a lower dose and gradually increase it to find the most effective dose for you.
• It’s essential to continue taking Fenoglide even if you feel well. High cholesterol often has no symptoms, but the medication is still necessary to manage it.
• Along with taking Fenoglide, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, weight management, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption to help control cholesterol levels.

Remember to always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance regarding your medication regimen.

Other uses for this medicine

Some potential off-label uses may include:

• Management of certain lipid disorders.
• Adjunct therapy for individuals at risk of cardiovascular events.
• Treatment of hyperlipidemia in patients with diabetes.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to consider when taking Fenoglide include:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies to fenofibrate or any other medications before starting Fenoglide.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Fenoglide should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
• Liver and kidney function: Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems before taking Fenoglide, as dosage adjustments may be necessary.
• Gallbladder disease: Fenoglide may increase the risk of gallstones or worsen existing gallbladder disease. Inform your doctor if you have a history of gallbladder problems.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking, as Fenoglide may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and other lipid-lowering drugs.
• Muscle problems: Fenoglide may cause muscle problems such as myopathy or rhabdomyolysis, particularly when taken with certain other medications. Inform your doctor if you experience unexplained muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness while taking Fenoglide.
• Regular monitoring: Your doctor may recommend regular monitoring of your liver function, kidney function, and lipid levels while taking Fenoglide to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and advice when taking Fenoglide or any other medication. If you have any concerns or experience any side effects, contact your doctor promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions:

• Follow a healthy, balanced diet low in saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and refined sugars. Emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
• Limit your intake of high-fat foods, fried foods, processed foods, and sugary beverages.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as it may increase triglyceride levels and interfere with the effectiveness of Fenoglide.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• If you’re unsure about what to do, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Fenoglide, like any medication, can cause side effects. Common side effects of Fenoglide may include:

• Digestive issues: These can include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, or gas.
• Muscle pain: Some individuals may experience muscle pain, weakness, or tenderness, which could indicate a more serious condition called myopathy.
• Liver problems: Fenofibrate medications, including Fenoglide, may lead to liver problems in some people. Symptoms can include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or persistent nausea.
• Allergic reactions: Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Fenoglide, which can include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Gallbladder problems: Fenoglide may increase the risk of gallstones or exacerbate existing gallbladder issues.
• Pancreatitis: In rare cases, Fenoglide may cause inflammation of the pancreas, leading to symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever.
• Blood disorders: Fenoglide may affect blood cell counts, leading to anemia or changes in white blood cell counts.

It’s essential to report any side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, if you experience severe or persistent side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

Keep in mind that this list is not exhaustive, and there may be other side effects associated with Fenoglide. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for comprehensive information about potential side effects and how to manage them.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Here’s what you should know about the storage and disposal of Fenoglide:

Storage:

• Store Fenoglide at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
• Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not store Fenoglide in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink where it could be exposed to moisture.
• Follow any specific storage instructions provided by your pharmacist.

Disposal:

• Dispose of any unused or expired Fenoglide tablets properly.
• Do not flush Fenoglide down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
• Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for proper disposal instructions, such as through a medication take-back program.
• Remove any personal information from the medication packaging before disposing of it.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of Fenoglide:

• If you suspect an overdose, call emergency medical services (911 in the US) immediately.
• Seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center.
• Be prepared to provide information about the medication, including the dosage taken and when it was ingested.

What other information should I know?

• Keep all appointments with your doctor for regular check-ups and monitoring of your cholesterol levels and response to Fenoglide.
• Do not share Fenoglide with others, even if they have similar symptoms, as it may not be suitable for their condition.
• Inform any healthcare provider who treats you about all the medications you’re taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
• Follow your doctor’s advice regarding dietary and lifestyle changes to complement the effects of Fenoglide in managing your cholesterol levels.
• If you’re scheduled for surgery, inform your surgeon or anesthesiologist that you’re taking Fenoglide, as it may interact with certain anesthetics.
• Keep a list of all your medications and their dosages, and carry it with you in case of emergencies.