Lofibra and Depression

There are several potential side effects of Lofibra, and depression may develop, although it is rare. Possible signs of depression include thoughts of death or suicide, insomnia, decreased energy, and feelings of hopelessness and pessimism. Because it is reported so infrequently, it is unknown whether there is actually a link between Lofibra and depression or if this is actually caused by other factors.

 

Lofibra and Depression: An Overview

There are many possible side effects for people taking Lofibra® (fenofibrate). One rare side effect is depression, occurring in less than 1 percent of patients. Given how infrequently depression occurs in people taking Lofibra, it is difficult to say whether depression is actually caused by the medicine or by something else. This is especially true, since in any given one-year period, 9.5 percent of the population (about 18.8 million American adults) suffer from depression.
 

Lofibra and Depression -- What to Look For

Possible symptoms of depression include:
 
  • Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood
  • Feelings of hopelessness and pessimism
  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and helplessness
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex
  • Decreased energy, fatigue, and being "slowed down"
  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering, and making decisions
  • Insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping
  • Appetite and/or weight loss or overeating and weight gain
  • Thoughts of death or suicide; suicide attempts
  • Restlessness and irritability
  • Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain.
     
Keep in mind that there are other conditions that can share similar symptoms with depression. If you experience any of these possible symptoms while taking Lofibra, you should visit your healthcare provider so that the problem can be properly diagnosed and treated.
 
(Lofibra and Depression Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;