Did your doctor say that your cholesterol, especially triglycerides, is high in your recent blood test? Or did he say that your HDL (good cholesterol) level is low? At a time like this, there is a good chance that your doctor will tell you to start a medication called Fibrates. So don't be scared when you hear this name. Today, we will talk about what these Fibrates are, how they are good for the body, and what you need to be careful about.
What are fibrates? How do they work in the body?
Simply put, Fibrates are a class of medications that help control the types of fats in our blood. These medications mainly do two things:
1. Reducing Triglycerides: Triglycerides are a type of fat that accumulates in the blood after we eat. When they become too high, they are stored in our fat cells. High levels of these fats can lead to heart disease and a dangerous condition called pancreatitis , which is an inflammation of the pancreas. Fibrates work by reducing the amount of triglycerides produced by the liver.
2. Increase good cholesterol (HDL): You may have heard that there are two types of cholesterol, 'good' and 'bad'. HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) is the so-called 'good' cholesterol . Fibrates can also help increase this good cholesterol level.
But one thing to remember: Fibrates do not significantly reduce LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) levels, which are called 'bad cholesterol' . There are other medications for that.
Who needs this type of medicine?
The main reason your doctor will prescribe this medication is because your blood triglyceride levels are very high. Fibrates are a very important medication to reduce the risk of developing pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas, due to these high triglyceride levels.
Although elevated triglycerides are associated with an increased risk of heart disease, fibrates have not been proven to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. Other drugs, such as statins, are more commonly used for this purpose. Therefore, the main goal of this drug is to reduce the risk of pancreatitis.
What are the types of fibrates and how successful are they?
There are several types of medications that belong to the fibrates group. Your doctor may prescribe one of these for you.
| Generic name of the drug | Some Brand Names in the Market |
|---|---|
| Fenofibrate | TriCor®, Fibricor®, Lofibra® |
| Gemfibrozil | Lopid® |
| Clofibrate | Atromid-S® |
How effective is this medicine?
Fibrates are a medication that has been very effective for some people. Research has shown that they can:
- Reduce triglyceride levels by about 50% .
- Increase good cholesterol (HDL) levels by about 20% .
- Reduce total cholesterol levels by about 10% .
Is it not enough to use fibrates alone? What else should I do?
Sometimes, fibrates alone may be enough to lower triglycerides. However, if you are at risk for heart disease, your doctor may prescribe another type of cholesterol-lowering medication called statins along with this medication.
When these two medications are taken together, some people may have a slightly increased risk of muscle problems . So your doctor will monitor you closely. But don't worry, many people use these two medications together without any problems.
The most important thing is that medication alone is not enough. Along with medication, you must also make these lifestyle changes:
- A heart-healthy diet: Reduce foods high in oil, sugar, and flour, and eat more vegetables, fruits, greens, and fiber-rich foods.
- Exercise: Exercise for at least 150 minutes a week. Even a brisk walk is enough.
- Stress management: Focus on things that bring you peace of mind. Things like meditation and listening to music can help.
- Get good sleep: Make sure to sleep at least 7-8 hours a night.
- Smoking cessation: Quit smoking and tobacco products completely.
Side effects and interactions with other medications
Like any medication, fibrates can cause minor side effects in some people, but not everyone gets them.
| Common side effects | Interactions with other medications |
|---|---|
|
How long should I take this medicine? Who should not take it?
Fibrates are usually a long-term medication. Do not stop taking them unless your doctor tells you to. He or she will regularly check your blood to make sure the medication is working and that your levels are under control.
Inappropriate situations to take this medicine:
This medicine may not be suitable for some people. If you have any of the following conditions, you should definitely tell your doctor before starting the medicine.
- If you are pregnant or a nursing mother
- If you have allergies to these medications
- If you have diabetes
- If you have kidney, liver, or gallbladder conditions
- If you are facing something in the future, such as surgery or tooth extraction
If you experience these symptoms, see a doctor immediately!
If you experience any of the following symptoms while taking this medicine, tell your doctor immediately. Sometimes these can be signs of a serious condition.
- Excessive muscle pain or weakness that comes on for no reason
- Persistent severe stomach pain
- Skin rash
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (Jaundice)
If you feel something like this, don't make decisions alone, see a doctor immediately. If necessary, don't hesitate to go to a hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU).
Take-Home Message
- Fibrates are a type of medication that reduces triglycerides in the blood and increases good cholesterol (HDL).
- The main purpose of this is to prevent pancreatitis, which can be caused by high triglycerides.
- This medicine should only be used under the advice of a doctor. Take the medicine as directed, in the prescribed dosage, and at the prescribed time.
- Medication alone is not enough. It is essential to follow a heart-healthy diet, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle.
- If you experience any unusual symptoms such as muscle pain, severe stomach cramps, or yellowing of the skin, inform your doctor immediately.
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