Finora

Orange, hard gelatine capsule.
Each capsule contains: Fenofibrate USP 200 mg.
Fenofibrate capsules, USP is a lipid regulating agent available as capsules for oral administration. The chemical name for fenofibrate is 2-[4-(4-chlorobenzoyl) phenoxy]-2-methyl-propanoic acid, l-methylethyl ester.
The molecular formula is C₂₀H₂₁O₄Cl and the molecular weight is 360.83 g/mol; fenofibrate is insoluble in water. The melting point is 79°C to 82°C. Fenofibrate, USP is a white crystalline powder which is stable under ordinary conditions.

Pharmacotherapeutic Group: Serum Lipid Reducing Agents/Cholesterol and Triglyceride Reducers/Fibrates. ATC code: C10 AB 05.
Pharmacology: Mechanism of Action: The active moiety of fenofibrate is fenofibric acid. The pharmacological effects of fenofibric acid in both animals and humans have been extensively studied through oral administration of fenofibrate.
The lipid-lowering 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 peroxisome proliferator activated receptor α (PPARα).
Through this mechanism, fenofibrate 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). The resulting decrease in triglycerides produces an alteration in the size and composition of LDL from small, dense particles (which are thought to be atherogenic due to their susceptibility to oxidation), to large buoyant particles. These larger particles have a greater affinity for cholesterol receptors and are catabolized rapidly. Activation of PPARα also induces an increase in the synthesis of apoproteins A-I, A-II and HDL-cholesterol.
Fenofibrate also reduces serum uric acid levels in hyperuricemic and normal individuals by increasing the urinary excretion of uric acid.
Pharmacodynamics: A variety of clinical studies have demonstrated that elevated levels of total-C, DL-C, and Apo B, an LDL membrane complex, are associated with human atherosclerosis. Similarly, decreased levels of HDL-C and its transport complex, apolipoprotein A (Apo AI and Apo AII) are associated with the development of atherosclerosis. Epidemiologic investigations have established that cardiovascular morbidity and mortality vary directly with the level of total-C, LDL-C, and triglycerides, and inversely with the level of HDL-C. The independent effect of raising HDL-C or lowering TG on the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality has not been determined. Fenofibric acid, the active metabolite of fenofibrate, produces reductions in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, apolipoprotein B, total triglycerides, and triglyceride-rich lipoprotein in treated patients. In addition, treatment with fenofibrate results in increases in high density lipoprotein (HDL) and apoproteins Apo AI and Apo AII.
Pharmacokinetics: 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. Following oral administration in healthy volunteers, approximately 60% of a single dose of radiolabelled fenofibrate appeared in urine, primarily as fenofibric acid and its glucuronate conjugate, and 25% was excreted in the feces. Peak plasma levels of fenofibric acid occur within 6 hours to 8 hours after administration. The absorption of fenofibrate is increased when administered with food. With micronized fenofibrate, the absorption is increased by approximately 35% under fed as compared to fasting conditions.
Distribution: In healthy volunteers, steady-state plasma levels of fenofibric acid were shown to be achieved within 5 days of dosing with single oral doses equivalent to 67 mg fenofibrate and did not demonstrate accumulation across time following multiple dose administration. Serum protein binding was approximately 99% in normal and hyperlipidemic subjects.
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 radiolabelled fenofibrate, approximately 60% of the dose appeared in the urine and 25% was excreted in the feces. Fenofibric acid is eliminated with a half-life of 20 hours, allowing once daily administration in a clinical setting.
Special Populations: Geriatrics: In elderly volunteers 77 years 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 the elderly, without increasing accumulation of the drug or metabolites.
Pediatrics: Fenofibrate has not been investigated in adequate and well-controlled trials in pediatric patients.
Gender: No pharmacokinetic difference between males and females has been observed for fenofibrate.
Race: 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. Therefore, inter-ethnic pharmacokinetic differences are very unlikely.
Renal Insufficiency: In a study in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <50 mL/min), the rate of clearance of fenofibric acid was greatly reduced, and the compound accumulated during chronic dosage. However, in patients having moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance of 50 mL/min to 90 mL/min), the oral clearance and the oral volume of distribution of fenofibric acid are increased compared to healthy adults (2.1 L/h and 95 L versus 1.1 L/h and 30 L, respectively). Therefore, the dosage of fenofibrate should be minimized in patients who have severe renal impairment, while no modification of dosage is required in patients having moderate renal impairment.
Hepatic Insufficiency: No pharmacokinetic studies have been conducted in patients having hepatic insufficiency.
Drug-drug Interactions: 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 CYP2C19 and CYP2A6, and mild-to-moderate inhibitors of CYP2C9 at therapeutic concentrations. Potentiation of coumarin-type anticoagulants has been observed with prolongation of the prothrombin time/INR. Bile acid sequestrants have been shown to bind other drugs given concurrently.
Therefore, fenofibrate should be taken at least 1 hour before or 4 hours to 6 hours after a bile acid binding resin to avoid impeding its absorption.

Treatment of Hypercholesterolemia: Fenofibrate capsules, USP are indicated as adjunctive therapy to diet for the reduction of LDL-C, Total-C, Triglycerides and Apo B in adult patients with primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia (Fredrickson Types IIa and IIb). Lipid-altering agents should be used in addition to a diet restricted in saturated fat and cholesterol when response to diet and non-pharmacological interventions alone has been inadequate.
Treatment of Hypertriglyceridemia: Fenofibrate capsules, USP are also indicated as adjunctive therapy to diet for treatment of adult patients with hypertriglyceridemia (Fredrickson Types IV and V hyperlipidemia). Improving glycemic control in diabetic patients showing fasting chylomicronemia will usually reduce fasting triglycerides and eliminate chylomicronemia thereby obviating the need for pharmacologic intervention.
Markedly elevated levels of serum triglycerides (e.g. >2,000 mg/dL) may increase the risk of developing pancreatitis. The effect of fenofibrate capsules, USP therapy on reducing this risk has not been adequately studied. Drug therapy is not indicated for patients with Type I hyperlipoproteinemia, who have elevations of chylomicrons and plasma triglycerides, but who have normal levels of very low density lipoprotein (VLDL). Inspection of plasma refrigerated for 14 hours is helpful in distinguishing Types I, IV and V hyperlipoproteinemia type 2. The initial treatment for dyslipidemia is dietary therapy specific for the type of lipoprotein abnormality. Excess body weight and excess alcoholic intake may be important factors in hypertriglyceridemia and should be addressed prior to any drug therapy. Physical exercise can be an important ancillary measure. Diseases contributory to hyperlipidemia, such as hypothyroidism or diabetes mellitus should be looked for and adequately treated. Estrogen therapy, like thiazide diuretics and beta-blockers, is sometimes associated with massive rises in plasma triglycerides, especially in subjects with familial hypertriglyceridemia. In such cases, discontinuation of the specific etiologic agent may obviate the need for specific drug therapy of hypertriglyceridemia. The use of drugs should be considered only when reasonable attempts have been made to obtain satisfactory results with non-drug methods. If the decision is made to use drugs, the patient should be instructed that this does not reduce the importance of adhering to diet.

Dosage: Adults: The recommended dose is 200 mg daily administered as one capsule of Fenofibrate 200 mg capsules.
The dose can be titrated up to 267 mg daily administered as 4 capsules of Fenofibrate 67 mg capsules, if required. This maximum dose is not recommended in addition to a statin.
Special populations: Elderly patients (≥65 years old): No dose adjustment is necessary. The usual dose is recommended, except for decreased renal function with estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (see Patients with renal impairment as follows).
Patients with renal impairment: Fenofibrate should not be used if severe renal impairment, defined as eGFR <30 mL/min per 1.73 m2, is present.
If eGFR is between 30 and 59 mL/min per 1.73 m2, the dose of fenofibrate should not exceed 100 mg standard or 67 mg micronized once daily.
If, during follow-up, the eGFR decreases persistently to <30 mL/min per 1.73 m2, fenofibrate should be discontinued.
Hepatic impairment: Fenofibrate 200 mg capsules are is not recommended for use in patients with hepatic impairment due to the lack of data.
Paediatric population: The safety and efficacy of fenofibrate in children and adolescents younger than 18 years has not been established. No data are available.
Therefore, the use of fenofibrate is not recommended in pediatric subjects under 18 years.
Method of administration: Capsules should be swallowed whole during a meal.

There is no specific treatment for overdose with fenofibrate. General supportive care of the patient is indicated, including monitoring of vital signs and observation of clinical status, should an overdose occur. If indicated, elimination of unabsorbed drug should be achieved by emesis or gastric lavage; usual precautions should be observed to maintain the airway. Because fenofibrate is highly bound to plasma proteins, hemodialysis should not be considered.

Fenofibrate is contraindicated in: Patients who exhibit hypersensitivity to fenofibrate.
Patients with hepatic or severe renal dysfunction, including primary biliary cirrhosis.
Patients with unexplained persistent liver function abnormality.
Patients with pre-existing gall bladder disease.

Secondary causes of hyperlipidemia: Secondary causes of hyperlipidemia, such as uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, nephrotic syndrome, dysproteinemia, obstructive liver disease, pharmacological treatment, alcoholism, should be adequately treated before fenofibrate therapy is considered. Secondary cause of hypercholesterolemia related to pharmacological treatment can be seen with diuretics, β-blocking agents, estrogens, progestogens, combined oral contraceptives, immunosuppressive agents and protease inhibitors. In these cases it should be ascertained whether the hyperlipidemia is of primary or secondary nature (possible elevation of lipid values caused by these therapeutic agents).
Liver function: As with other lipid lowering agents, increases have been reported in transaminase levels in some patients. In the majority of cases these elevations were transient, minor and asymptomatic. It is recommended that transaminase levels are monitored every 3 months during the first 12 months of treatment and thereafter periodically. Attention should be paid to patients who develop increase in transaminase levels and therapy should be discontinued if AST (SGOT) and ALT (SGPT) levels increase to more than 3 times the upper limit of the normal range. When symptoms indicative of hepatitis occur (e.g. jaundice, pruritus), and diagnosis is confirmed by laboratory testing, fenofibrate therapy should be discontinued.
Pancreas: Pancreatitis has been reported in patients taking fenofibrate. 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.
Muscle: Muscle toxicity, including rare cases of rhabdomyolysis, with or without renal failure has been reported with administration of fibrates and other lipid-lowering agents. The incidence of this disorder increases in cases of hypoalbuminemia and previous renal insufficiency. Patients with pre-disposing factors for myopathy and/or rhabdomyolysis, including age above 70 years, personal or familial history of hereditary muscular disorders, renal impairment, hypothyroidism and high alcohol intake, may be at an increased risk of developing rhabdomyolysis. For these patients, the putative benefits and risks of fenofibrate therapy should be carefully weighed up.
Muscle toxicity should be suspected in patients presenting diffuse myalgia, myositis, muscular cramps and weakness and/or marked increases in CPK (levels exceeding 5 times the normal range). In such cases treatment with fenofibrate should be stopped.
The risk of muscle toxicity may be increased if the drug is administered with another fibrate or an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, especially in cases of pre-existing muscular disease. Consequently, the co-prescription of fenofibrate with a HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor or another fibrate should be reserved to patients with severe combined dyslipidaemia and high cardiovascular risk without any history of muscular disease and a close monitoring of potential muscle toxicity.
Renal function: Fenofibrate 200 mg capsules are contraindicated in severe renal impairment.
Fenofibrate 200 mg capsules should be used with caution in patients with mild to moderate renal insufficiency. Dose should be adjusted in patients whose estimated glomerular filtration rate is 30 to 59 mL/min/1.73 m2.
Reversible elevations in serum creatinine have been reported in patients receiving fenofibrate monotherapy or co-administered with statins. Elevations in serum creatinine were generally stable over time with no evidence for continued increases in serum creatinine with long term therapy and tended to return to baseline following discontinuation of treatment. fenofibrate and During clinical trials, 10% of patients had a creatinine increase from baseline greater than 30 μmol/L with co-administered simvastatin versus 4.4% with statin monotherapy. 0.3% of patients receiving co-administration had clinically relevant increases in creatinine to values >200 μmol/L. Treatment should be interrupted when creatinine level is 50% above the upper limit of normal. It is recommended that creatinine is measured during the first 3 months after initiation of treatment and periodically thereafter.

Pregnancy: There are no adequate data from the use of fenofibrate in pregnant women. Animal studies have not demonstrated any teratogenic effects. Embryotoxic effects have been shown at doses in the range of maternal toxicity. The potential risk for humans is unknown. Therefore, Fenofibrate 200 mg capsules should only be used during pregnancy after a careful benefit/risk assessment.
Breast-feeding: It is unknown whether fenofibrate and/or its metabolites are excreted in human milk. A risk to the suckling child cannot be excluded. Therefore, fenofibrate should not be used during breast-feeding.
Fertility: Reversible effects on fertility have been observed in animals. There are no clinical data on fertility from the use of Fenofibrate 200 mg capsules.

The most commonly reported ADRs during fenofibrate therapy are digestive, gastric or intestinal disorders.
The following undesirable effects have been observed during placebo-controlled clinical trials (n=2,344) with the following indicated frequencies: The adverse drug reactions are stated in the table as follows using the following convention: Very common (>1/10); common (>1/100; <1/10); uncommon (>1/1,000; <1/100); rare (>1/10,000; <1/1,000); very rare (<1/10,000) including isolated reports. (See table.)

Click on icon to see table/diagram/image

Oral anti-coagulants: Fenofibrate enhances oral anti-coagulant effect and may increase risk of bleeding. In patients receiving oral anti-coagulant therapy, the dose of anti-coagulant should be reduced by about one-third at the commencement of treatment and then gradually adjusted if necessary, according to INR (International Normalised Ratio) monitoring.
Ciclosporin: Some severe cases of reversible renal function impairment have been reported during concomitant administration of fenofibrate and ciclosporin. The renal function of these patients must therefore be closely monitored and the treatment with fenofibrate stopped in the case of severe alteration of laboratory parameters.
HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors or Other Fibrates: The risk of serious muscle toxicity is increased if a fibrate is used concomitantly with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors or other fibrates. Such combination therapy should be used with caution and patients monitored closely for signs of muscle toxicity (see Precautions). There is currently no evidence to suggest that fenofibrate affects the pharmacokinetics of simvastatin.
Glitazones: Some cases of reversible paradoxical reduction of HDL-cholesterol have been reported during concomitant administration of fenofibrate and glitazones. Therefore, it is recommended to monitor HDL-cholesterol if one of these components is added to the other and stopping of either therapy if HDL-cholesterol is too low.
Cytochrome P450 enzymes: 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 CYP2C19 and CYP2A6, and mild-to-moderate of CYP2C9 at therapeutic concentrations.
Patients co-administered fenofibrate and CYP2C19, CYP2A6, and especially CYP2C9 metabolized drugs with a narrow therapeutic index should be carefully monitored and, if necessary, dose adjustment of these drugs is recommended.
Other: In common with other fibrates, fenofibrate induces microsomal mixed-function oxidases involved in fatty acid metabolism in rodents and may interact with drugs metabolized by these enzymes.

Store at temperatures not exceeding 30°C.

Dyslipidaemic Agents

C10AB05 - fenofibrate ; Belongs to the class of fibrates. Used in the treatment of hyperlipidemia.

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