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Lofibra
Lofibra is used to treat high cholesterol and reduce triglycerides in the body. By increasing the production of an enzyme that breaks down triglyceride-rich particles and increases their removal, the medication can help decrease the risks of many heart-related health problems. It comes in capsule or tablet form, and is available in a variety of strengths.
Lofibra® (fenofibrate) is a prescription medication used to reduce triglycerides (a fat-like substance) and cholesterol levels in the body. Lowering the amount of these substances may help to prevent conditions such as heart disease, angina (chest pain), strokes, and heart attacks. The medication should be used in combination with diet and exercise for the best results.
Lofibra is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals for Gate Pharmaceuticals.
Lofibra has been licensed for several uses, including:
- Lowering cholesterol levels in people with hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol). The drug can reduce total cholesterol, LDL ("bad" cholesterol), apo B (a component of cholesterol that is related to several heart disease risk factors), and VLDL (very low density lipoprotein cholesterol). Lofibra can also raise HDL ("good" cholesterol).
- Lowering triglycerides in people with hypertriglyceridemia (high triglyceride levels). Very high triglyceride levels in the body increases the risk for developing a condition known as pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).
This medication can actually cause an increase in LDL cholesterol for people with very high levels of triglycerides (greater than 350 mg/dL). Therefore, it should be used with extreme caution or not at all for people with this condition who also have high LDL levels.
(Click Lofibra Uses for more information.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD