Fibrates

Fibrates are cholesterol – lowering agents (lipid lowering drugs) and are currently recommended for all patients with a cholesterol level above 5.0 mmol/litre, although this level is dropping as time goes by due to new evidence from clinical trials.

The aim is that total blood cholesterol should be reduced to at least 5.0mmol/litre. There is evidence that lowering total cholesterol by 20-25% reduces coronary risk (if combined with a proper diet and exercise).

Examples of Fibrates are: Bezafibrate (Bezalip, Bezalip mono), Fenofibrate (Lipantil).

One tablet a day with food is the usual dose.

Absolute contra-indications to Fibrates

• Liver and kidney problems
• Pregnancy.

Side effects

• Gastro intestinal upsets
• Inflammation of muscles

Both fibrates and statins can cause inflammation of the muscle (myositis) and this effect would be increased if statins and fibrates are used together. This should only be done under specialist supervision.

Gastro-intestinal effects- such as nausea, abdominal pain and sickness can occur, as can hypersensitivity and rash (rarely).