Fenoglide (fenofibrate 40 mg) Dailymed
Generic: fenofibrate is used for the treatment of Coronary Artery Disease Gallbladder Diseases Hypercholesterolemia Hyperlipoproteinemias Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary Liver Diseases Hypertriglyceridemia Liver Failure Renal Insufficiency
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Recent Major Changes Section
Warnings and Precautions, Hepatotoxicity (5.2 ) 06/2021
1 Indications And Usage
FENOGLIDE is a peroxisome proliferator receptor alpha (PPARα) activator indicated as an adjunct to diet:
• to reduce elevated LDL-C, Total-C, TG, and Apo B, and to increase HDL-C in adult patients with primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia. (1.1 )• to treat adult patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia. (1.2 )
Important Limitation of Use: Fenofibrate was not shown to reduce coronary heart disease morbidity and mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. (5.1 )
1.1 Primary Hypercholesterolemia and Mixed Dyslipidemia
FENOGLIDE® is indicated as adjunctive therapy to diet to reduce elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), total cholesterol (Total-C), triglycerides (TG), and apolipoprotein B (Apo B), and to increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) in adult patients with primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia.
1.2 Severe Hypertriglyceridemia
FENOGLIDE is also indicated as adjunctive therapy to diet for treatment of adult patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia. 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 FENOGLIDE therapy on reducing this risk has not been adequately studied.
1.3 Important Limitations of Use
Fenofibrate was not shown to reduce coronary heart disease morbidity and mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
2 Dosage And Administration
• Primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia: 120 mg per day (2.2 )• Severe hypertriglyceridemia: 40 to 120 mg per day; the dose should be adjusted according to patient response. (2.3 )• Renally impaired patients: Initial dose of 40 mg per day; the dose should be increased according to the effect on renal function and lipid levels. (2.4 )• Geriatric patients: Select dose on the basis of renal function. (2.5 )
To increase absorption of FENOGLIDE, take with food. (2.1 )
2.1 General Considerations
FENOGLIDE should be given with food to optimize the absorption of the medicine. Patients should be advised to swallow FENOGLIDE tablets whole. Do not crush, dissolve or chew tablets.
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, thiazide diuretics and beta-blockers, are 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.
Lipid levels should be monitored periodically and consideration should be given to reducing the dosage of FENOGLIDE if lipid levels fall significantly below the targeted range.
Therapy should be withdrawn in patients who do not have an adequate response after two months of treatment with the maximum recommended dose of 120 mg once daily.
2.2 Primary Hypercholesterolemia or Mixed Dyslipidemia
The initial dose of FENOGLIDE is 120 mg per day.
2.3 Severe Hypertriglyceridemia
The initial dose is 40 to 120 mg per day. Dosage should be individualized according to patient response, and should be adjusted if necessary following repeat lipid determinations at 4 to 8 week intervals. The maximum dose is 120 mg per day.
2.4 Impaired Renal Function
Treatment with FENOGLIDE should be initiated at a dose of 40 mg per day in patients with mild to moderately impaired renal function, and increased only after evaluation of the effects on renal function and lipid levels at this dose. The use of FENOGLIDE should be avoided in patients with severe renal impairment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
2.5 Geriatric Patients
Dose selection for the elderly should be made on the basis of renal function [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5)].
3 Dosage Forms And Strengths
• 40 mg: White to off-white oval tablets. Debossed “FLOâ€.• 120 mg: White to off-white oval tablets. Debossed “FHIâ€.
• Oral tablets: 40 mg and 120 mg (3 )
4 Contraindications
FENOGLIDE is contraindicated in:
• patients with severe renal dysfunction, including those receiving dialysis [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].• patients with active liver disease, including those with primary biliary cirrhosis and unexplained persistent liver function abnormalities [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].• patients with pre-existing gallbladder disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].• patients with a known hypersensitivity to fenofibrate [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].• nursing mothers [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)].
• Severe renal dysfunction, including patients receiving dialysis (4 ,8.6 ,12.3 )• Active liver disease (4 ,5.3 )• Gallbladder disease (4 ,5.5 )• Nursing mothers (4 ,8.2 )• Known hypersensitivity to fenofibrate (4 )
5 Warnings And Precautions
• Hepatotoxicity: Serious drug-induced liver injury, including liver transplantation and death, has been reported with FENOGLIDE. Monitor patient’s liver function, including serum ALT, AST, and total bilirubin, at baseline and periodically for the duration of therapy. Discontinue if signs or symptoms of liver injury develop or if elevated enzyme levels persist. (5.2 )• Myopathy and rhabdomyolysis: Have been reported in patients taking fenofibrate. Risks are increased during co-administration with a statin (with a significantly higher rate observed for gemfibrozil), particularly in elderly patients and patients with diabetes, renal failure, or hypothyroidism. (5.3 )• Serum creatinine: Fenofibrate can reversibly increase serum creatinine levels. (5.4 ) Monitor renal function periodically in patients with renal impairment. (8.6 )• Cholelithiasis: Fenofibrate increases cholesterol excretion into the bile, leading to risk of cholelithiasis. If cholelithiasis is suspected, gallbladder studies are indicated. (5.5 )• Coumarin anticoagulants: Exercise caution in concomitant treatment with coumarin anticoagulants. Adjust the dosage of coumarin to maintain the prothrombin time/INR at the desired level to prevent bleeding complications. (5.6 )• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Acute hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis and angioedema, and delayed hypersensitivity reactions, including severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions have been reported postmarketing. Some cases were life-threatening and required emergency treatment. Discontinue fenofibrate and treat patients appropriately if reactions occur. (5.9 )5.1 Mortality and Coronary Heart Disease Morbidity
The effect of FENOGLIDE on coronary heart disease morbidity and mortality and non-cardiovascular mortality has not been established.
The Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes Lipid (ACCORD Lipid) trial was a randomized placebo-controlled study of 5,518 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus on background statin therapy treated with fenofibrate. The mean duration of follow-up was 4.7 years. Fenofibrate plus statin combination therapy showed a non-significant 8% relative risk reduction in the primary outcome of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), a composite of non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke, and cardiovascular disease death (hazard ratio [HR] 0.92, 95% CI 0.79-1.08) (p=0.32) as compared to statin monotherapy. In a gender subgroup analysis, the hazard ratio for MACE in men receiving combination therapy versus statin monotherapy was 0.82 (95% CI 0.69-0.99), and the hazard ratio for MACE in women receiving combination therapy versus statin monotherapy was 1.38 (95% CI 0.98-1.94) (interaction p=0.01). The clinical significance of this subgroup finding is unclear.
The Fenofibrate Intervention and Event Lowering in Diabetes (FIELD) study was a 5-year randomized, placebo-controlled study of 9,795 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated with fenofibrate. Fenofibrate demonstrated a non-significant 11% relative reduction in the primary outcome of coronary heart disease events (hazard ratio [HR] 0.89, 95% CI 0.75-1.05, p=0.16) and a significant 11% reduction in the secondary outcome of total cardiovascular disease events (HR 0.89 [0.80-0.99], p=0.04). There was a non-significant 11% (HR 1.11 [0.95, 1.29], p=0.18) and 19% (HR 1.19 [0.90, 1.57], p=0.22) increase in total and coronary heart disease mortality, respectively, with fenofibrate as compared to placebo.
Because of chemical, pharmacological, and clinical similarities between fenofibrate, clofibrate, and gemfibrozil, the adverse findings in 4 large, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical studies with these other fibrate drugs may also apply to FENOGLIDE.
In the Coronary Drug Project, a large study of post myocardial infarction of patients treated for 5 years with clofibrate, there was no difference in mortality seen between the clofibrate group and the placebo group. There was however, a difference in the rate of cholelithiasis and cholecystitis requiring surgery between the two groups (3.0% vs. 1.8%).
In a study conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO), 5000 subjects without known coronary artery disease were treated with placebo or clofibrate for 5 years and followed for an additional one year. There was a statistically significant, higher age-adjusted all-cause mortality in the clofibrate group compared with the placebo group (5.70% vs. 3.96%, p≤0.01). Excess mortality was due to a 33% increase in non-cardiovascular causes, including malignancy, post-cholecystectomy complications, and pancreatitis. This appeared to confirm the higher risk of gallbladder disease seen in clofibrate-treated patients studied in the Coronary Drug Project.
The Helsinki Heart Study was a large (n=4,081) study of middle-aged men without a history of coronary artery disease. Subjects received either placebo or gemfibrozil for 5 years, with a 3.5 year open extension afterward. Total mortality was numerically higher in the gemfibrozil randomization group but did not achieve statistical significance (p=0.19, 95% confidence interval for relative risk G:P=0.91-1.64). Although cancer deaths trended higher in the gemfibrozil group (p=0.11), cancers (excluding basal cell carcinoma) were diagnosed with equal frequency in both study groups. Due to the limited size of the study, the relative risk of death from any cause was not shown to be different than that seen in the 9 year follow-up data from the WHO study (RR=1.29).
A secondary prevention component of the Helsinki Heart Study enrolled middle-aged men excluded from the primary prevention study because of known or suspected coronary heart disease. Subjects received gemfibrozil or placebo for 5 years. Although cardiac deaths trended higher in the gemfibrozil group, this was not statistically significant (hazard ratio 2.2, 95% confidence interval: 0.94-5.05).
5.2 Hepatotoxicity
Serious drug-induced liver injury (DILI), including liver transplantation and death, have been reported postmarketing with FENOGLIDE. DILI has been reported within the first few weeks of treatment or after several months of therapy and in some cases has reversed with discontinuation of FENOGLIDE treatment. Patients with DILI have experienced signs and symptoms including dark urine, abnormal stool, jaundice, malaise, abdominal pain, myalgia, weight loss, pruritus, and nausea. Many patients had concurrent elevations of total bilirubin, serum alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate transaminase (AST). DILI has been characterized as hepatocellular, chronic active, and cholestatic hepatitis, and cirrhosis has occurred in association with chronic active hepatitis.
In clinical trials, fenofibrate at doses equivalent to 87 mg to 130 mg fenofibrate daily (at the highest dose, comparable to FENOGLIDE, 120 mg) has been associated with increases in serum AST or ALT. The incidence of increases in transaminases may be dose related [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ].
FENOGLIDE is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease, including those with primary biliary cirrhosis and unexplained persistent liver function abnormalities [see Contraindications (4) ]. Monitor patient’s liver function, including serum ALT, AST, and total bilirubin, at baseline and periodically for the duration of therapy with FENOGLIDE. Discontinue FENOGLIDE if signs or symptoms of liver injury develop or if elevated enzyme levels persist (ALT or AST > 3 times the upper limit of normal, or if accompanied by elevation of bilirubin). Do not restart FENOGLIDE in these patients if there is no alternative explanation for the liver injury.
5.3 Myopathy and Rhabdomyolysis
Fibrates increase the risk for myopathy and have been associated with rhabdomyolysis. The risk for serious muscle toxicity appears to be increased in elderly patients and in patients with diabetes, renal insufficiency, or hypothyroidism.
Myopathy should be considered in any patient with diffuse myalgias, muscle tenderness or weakness, and/or marked elevations of creatine phosphokinase (CPK) levels.
Patients should be advised to report promptly unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, particularly if accompanied by malaise or fever. CPK levels should be assessed in patients reporting these symptoms, and FENOGLIDE therapy should be discontinued if markedly elevated CPK levels occur or myopathy/myositis is suspected or diagnosed.
Data from observational studies indicate that the risk for rhabdomyolysis is increased when fibrates, in particular gemfibrozil, are co-administered with a statin. The combination should be avoided unless the benefit of further alterations in lipid levels is likely to outweigh the increased risk of this drug combination [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Cases of myopathy, including rhabdomyolysis, have been reported with fenofibrates co-administered with colchicine, and caution should be exercised when prescribing fenofibrate with colchicine [see Drug Interactions (7.4)].
5.4 Serum Creatinine
Elevations in serum creatinine have been reported in patients on fenofibrate. These elevations tend to return to baseline following discontinuation of fenofibrate. The clinical significance of these observations is unknown. Monitor renal function in patients with renal impairment taking FENOGLIDE. Renal monitoring should also be considered for patients taking FENOGLIDE at risk for renal insufficiency such as the elderly and patients with diabetes.
5.5 Cholelithiasis
Fenofibrate, like clofibrate and gemfibrozil, may increase cholesterol excretion into the bile, leading to cholelithiasis. If cholelithiasis is suspected, gallbladder studies are indicated. FENOGLIDE therapy should be discontinued if gallstones are found.
5.6 Coumarin Anticoagulants
Caution should be exercised when anticoagulants are given in conjunction with FENOGLIDE because of the potentiation of coumarin-type anticoagulants in prolonging the prothrombin time/International Normalized Ratio (PT/INR). To prevent bleeding complications, frequent monitoring of PT/INR and dose adjustment of the anticoagulant are recommended until PT/INR has stabilized [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].
5.7 Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis has been reported in patients taking fenofibrate, gemfibrozil, and clofibrate. 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.
5.8 Hematologic Changes
Mild to moderate hemoglobin, hematocrit, and white blood cell decreases have been observed in patients following initiation of fenofibrate therapy. However, these levels stabilize during long-term administration. Thrombocytopenia and agranulocytosis have been reported in individuals treated with fenofibrate. Periodic monitoring of red and white blood cell counts is recommended during the first 12 months of FENOGLIDE administration.
5.9 Hypersensitivity Reactions
Acute Hypersensitivity
Anaphylaxis and angioedema have been reported postmarketing with fenofibrate. In some cases, reactions were life-threatening and required emergency treatment. If a patient develops signs or symptoms of an acute hypersensitivity reaction, advise them to seek immediate medical attention and discontinue fenofibrate.
Delayed Hypersensitivity
Severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions (SCAR), including Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, and Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), have been reported postmarketing, occurring days to weeks after initiation of fenofibrate. The cases of DRESS were associated with cutaneous reactions (such as rash or exfoliative dermatitis) and a combination of eosinophilia, fever, systemic organ involvement (renal, hepatic, or respiratory). Discontinue fenofibrate and treat patients appropriately if SCAR is suspected.
5.10 Venothromboembolic Disease
In the FIELD trial, pulmonary embolus (PE) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) were observed at higher rates in the fenofibrate than the placebo-treated group. Of 9,795 patients enrolled in FIELD, there were 4,900 in the placebo group and 4,895 in the fenofibrate group. For DVT, there were 48 events (1%) in the placebo group and 67 (1%) in the fenofibrate group (p = 0.074); and for PE, there were 32 (0.7%) events in the placebo group and 53 (1%) in the fenofibrate group (p = 0.022).
In the Coronary Drug Project, a higher proportion of the clofibrate group experienced definite or suspected fatal or nonfatal pulmonary embolism or thrombophlebitis than the placebo group (5.2% vs. 3.3% at five years; p <0.01).
5.11 Paradoxical Decreases in HDL Cholesterol Levels
There have been postmarketing and clinical trial reports of severe decreases in HDL cholesterol levels (as low as 2 mg/dL) occurring in diabetic and non-diabetic patients initiated on fibrate therapy. The decrease in HDL-C is mirrored by a decrease in apolipoprotein A1. This decrease has been reported to occur within 2 weeks to years after initiation of fibrate therapy. The HDL-C levels remain depressed until fibrate therapy has been withdrawn; the response to withdrawal of fibrate therapy is rapid and sustained. The clinical significance of this decrease in HDL-C is unknown. It is recommended that HDL-C levels be checked within the first few months after initiation of fibrate therapy. If a severely depressed HDL-C level is detected, fibrate therapy should be withdrawn, and the HDL-C level monitored until it has returned to baseline, and fibrate therapy should not be re-initiated.
6 Adverse Reactions
The following serious adverse reactions are described below and elsewhere in the labeling:
• Mortality and coronary heart disease morbidity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]• Hepatoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]• Pancreatitis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ]• Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ]• Venothromboembolic Disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ]
The most common adverse reactions (>2% and at least 1% greater than placebo) are abnormal liver tests, increased AST, increased ALT, increased CPK, and rhinitis. (6 )
To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Salix Pharmaceuticals at 1-800-321-4576 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
6.1 Clinical Trials Experience
Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical studies of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical studies of another drug and may not reflect rates observed in clinical practice.
Adverse reactions reported by 2% or more of patients treated with fenofibrate and greater than placebo during double-blind, placebo-controlled trials are uled in Table 1. Adverse reactions led to discontinuation of treatment in 5.0% of patients treated with fenofibrate and in 3.0% treated with placebo. Increases in liver function tests were the most frequent events, causing discontinuation of fenofibrate treatment in 1.6% of patients in double-blind trials.
Table 1. Adverse Reactions Reported by 2% or More of Patients Treated with Fenofibrate and Greater than Placebo During the Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trials BODY SYSTEM Adverse Reaction Fenofibrate Dosage equivalent to 130 mg fenofibrate (N=439)Placebo (N=365)
BODY AS A WHOLE
  Abdominal Pain
4.6%
4.4%
  Back Pain
3.4%
2.5%
  Headache
3.2%
2.7%
DIGESTIVE
  Nausea
2.3%
1.9%
  Constipation
2.1%
1.4%
METABOLIC AND NUTRITIONALDISORDERS
  Abnormal Liver Tests
7.5%
1.4%
  Increased AST
3.4%
0.5%
  Increased ALT
3.0%
1.6%
  Increased Creatine Phosphokinase
3.0%
1.4%
RESPIRATORY
  Respiratory Disorder
6.2%
5.5%
  Rhinitis
2.3%
1.1%
Urticaria was seen in 1.1 vs. 0% and rash in 1.4 vs. 0.8% of fenofibrate and placebo patients respectively in controlled trials.
Increases in Liver Enzymes
In a pooled analysis of 10 placebo-controlled trials, increases to > 3 times the upper limit of normal in ALT occurred in 5.3% of patients taking fenofibrate at doses equivalent to 87 mg to 130 mg fenofibrate daily (at the highest dose, comparable to FENOGLIDE, 120 mg) versus 1.1% of patients treated with placebo. In an 8-week study, the incidence of ALT or AST elevations ≥ 3 times the upper limit of normal was 13% in patients receiving dosages equivalent to 87 mg to 130 mg fenofibrate daily and was 0% in those receiving dosages equivalent to 43 mg or less fenofibrate daily or placebo.
6.2 Postmarketing Experience
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of fenofibrate. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure:
myalgia, rhabdomyolysis, pancreatitis, acute renal failure, muscle spasms, hepatitis, cirrhosis, increased total bilirubin, anemia, arthralgia, decreases in hematocrit, white blood cell decreases, asthenia, severely depressed HDL cholesterol levels, and interstitial lung disease. Photosensitivity reactions have occurred days to months after initiation; in some of these cases, patients reported a prior photosensitivity reaction to ketoprofen.
7 Drug Interactions
• Coumarin Anticoagulants (7.1 )• Immunosuppressants (7.2 )• Bile-Acid Binding Resins (7.3 )7.1 Coumarin Anticoagulants
Caution should be exercised when coumarin anticoagulants are given in conjunction with FENOGLIDE. The dosage of the anticoagulants should be reduced to maintain the PT/INR at the desired level to prevent bleeding complications. Frequent PT/INR determinations are advisable until it has been definitely determined that the prothrombin time/INR has stabilized [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].
7.2 Immunosuppressants
Immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine and tacrolimus can produce nephrotoxicity with decreases in creatinine clearance and rises in serum creatinine, and because renal excretion is the primary elimination route of fibrate drugs including FENOGLIDE, there is a risk that an interaction will lead to deterioration of renal function. The benefits and risks of using FENOGLIDE with immunosuppressants and other potentially nephrotoxic agents should be carefully considered, and the lowest effective dose employed and renal function monitored.
7.3 Bile-Acid Binding Resins
Since bile acid resins may bind other drugs given concurrently, patients should take FENOGLIDE at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after a bile acid binding resin to avoid impeding its absorption.
7.4 Colchicine
Cases of myopathy, including rhabdomyolysis, have been reported with fenofibrates co-administered with colchicine, and caution should be exercised when prescribing fenofibrate with colchicine.
8 Use In Specific Populations
• Geriatric Use: Determine dose selection on the basis of renal function. (8.5 )• Renal Impairment: Avoid use in patients with severe renal impairment. Dose reduction is required in patients with mild to moderate renal impairment. (8.6 )8.1 Pregnancy
Risk Summary
Limited available data with fenofibrate use in pregnant women are insufficient to determine a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. In animal reproduction studies, no evidence of embryo-fetal toxicity was observed with oral administration of fenofibrate in rats and rabbits during organogenesis at doses less than or equivalent to the maximum recommended clinical dose of 120 mg daily, based on body surface area (mg/m2). Adverse reproductive outcomes occurred at higher doses in the presence of maternal toxicity [see Data]. FENOGLIDE should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively.
Data
Animal Data
In pregnant rats given oral dietary doses of 14, 127, and 361 mg/kg/day from gestation day 6-15 during the period of organogenesis, no adverse developmental findings were observed at 14 mg/kg/day (less than the clinical exposure at the maximum recommended human dose [MRHD] of 300 mg fenofibrate daily, equivalent to 120 mg FENOGLIDE daily, based on body surface area comparisons). Increased fetal skeletal malformations were observed at maternally toxic doses (361 mg/kg/day, corresponding to 12 times the clinical exposure at the MRHD) that significantly suppressed maternal body weight gain.
In pregnant rabbits given oral gavage doses of 15, 150, and 300 mg/kg/day from gestation day 6-18 during the period of organogenesis and allowed to deliver, no adverse developmental findings were observed at 15 mg/kg/day (a dose that approximates the clinical exposure at the MRHD, based on body surface area comparisons). Aborted litters were observed at maternally toxic doses (≥ 150 mg/kg/day, corresponding to ≥ 10 times the clinical exposure at the MRHD) that suppressed maternal body weight gain.
In pregnant rats given oral dietary doses of 15, 75, and 300 mg/kg/day from gestation day 15 through lactation day 21 (weaning), no adverse developmental effects were observed at 15 mg/kg/day (less than the clinical exposure at the MRHD, based on body surface area comparisons), despite maternal toxicity (decreased weight gain). Post-implantation loss was observed at ≥ 75 mg/kg/day (≥ 2 times the clinical exposure at the MRHD) in the presence of maternal toxicity (decreased weight gain). Decreased pup survival was noted at 300 mg/kg/day (10 times the clinical exposure at the MRHD), which was associated with decreased maternal body weight gain/maternal neglect.
8.2 Lactation
Risk Summary
There is no available information on the presence of fenofibrate in human milk, effects of the drug on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production. Fenofibrate is present in the milk of rats, and is therefore likely to be present in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants, such as disruption of infant lipid metabolism, women should not breastfeed during treatment with FENOGLIDE and for 5 days after the final dose [see Contraindications (4)].
8.4 Pediatric Use
Safety and efficacy have not been established in pediatric patients.
8.5 Geriatric Use
Fenofibric acid is known to be substantially excreted by the kidney, and the risk of adverse reactions to this drug may be greater in patients with impaired renal function. Fenofibric acid exposure is not influenced by age. Since elderly patients have a higher incidence of renal impairment, dose selection for the elderly should be made on the basis of renal function [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Elderly patients with normal renal function should require no dose modifications. Consider monitoring renal function in elderly patients taking FENOGLIDE.
8.6 Renal Impairment
The use of FENOGLIDE should be avoided in patients with severe renal impairment [see Contraindications (4)]. Dose reduction is required in patients with mild to moderate renal impairment [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Monitoring renal function in patients with renal impairment is recommended.
8.7 Hepatic Impairment
The use of FENOGLIDE has not been evaluated in subjects with hepatic impairment [see Contraindications (4) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
10 Overdosage
There is no specific treatment for overdose with FENOGLIDE. 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.
11 Description
FENOGLIDE (fenofibrate) Tablets is a lipid regulating agent available as tablets for oral administration. Each tablet contains 40 mg or 120 mg fenofibrate. The chemical name for fenofibrate is 2-[4-(4-chlorobenzoyl) phenoxy]-2-methyl-propanoic acid, 1-methylethyl ester with the following structural formula:
The empirical formula is C20H21O4Cl and the molecular weight is 360.83; fenofibrate is insoluble in water. The melting point is 79° to 82°C. Fenofibrate is a white solid which is stable under ordinary conditions.
Inactive ingredients: Each tablet contains lactose monohydrate, NF; Polyethylene Glycol 6000, NF; Poloxamer 188, NF; and magnesium stearate, NF.
12 Clinical Pharmacology
12.1 Mechanism of Action
The active moiety of FENOGLIDE 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 alpha (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 TG 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.
12.2 Pharmacodynamics
A variety of clinical studies have demonstrated that elevated levels of total -C, LDL-C, and apo B, an LDL membrane complex, are risk factors for human atherosclerosis. Similarly, decreased levels of HDL-C and its transport complex, apolipoprotein A (apo AI and apo AII) are risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis. Epidemiologic investigations have established that cardiovascular morbidity and mortality vary directly with the level of total-C, LDL-C, and TG, 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 TC, LDL-C, apo B, total triglycerides, and triglyceride-rich lipoprotein (VLDL) in treated patients. In addition, treatment with fenofibrate results in increases in HDL and apoproteins apo AI and apo AII.
12.3 Pharmacokinetics
Fenofibrate is a pro-drug of the active chemical moiety fenofibric acid. Fenofibrate is converted by ester hydrolysis in the body to fenofibric acid which is the active constituent measurable in the circulation.
Plasma concentrations of fenofibric acid after single-dose administration of FENOGLIDE tablets, 120 mg are equivalent to those of Fenofibrate 130 mg capsules under high-fat conditions.
A high-fat meal did not affect the fenofibric acid AUC after FENOGLIDE administration but did increase the mean Cmax by 44% compared to fasting conditions.
• 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 from FENOGLIDE occur, on average, within 2 to 3 hours after administration. Doses of three FENOGLIDE (fenofibrate) Tablets, 40 mg are considered to be equivalent to single doses of FENOGLIDE (fenofibrate) Tablets, 120 mg.• Distribution: In healthy volunteers, steady-state plasma levels of fenofibric acid were shown to be achieved within a week of dosing 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.• Elimination: 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 from FENOGLIDE is eliminated with a half-life of 23 hours, allowing once daily dosing.• Geriatrics: In elderly volunteers 77 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 [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) and Use in Specific Populations (8.5)].• Pediatrics: The pharmacokinetics of FENOGLIDE has not been studied in pediatric populations.• 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.• Renal Impairment: The pharmacokinetics of fenofibric acid were examined in patients with mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment. Patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance [CrCl] ≤30 mL/min or estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] <30 mL/min/1.73m2) showed 2.7-fold increase in exposure for fenofibric acid and increased accumulation of fenofibric acid during chronic dosing compared to that of healthy subjects. Patients with mild to moderate renal impairment (CrCl 30-80 mL/min or eGFR 30-59 mL/min/1.73m2) had similar exposure but an increase in the half-life for fenofibric acid compared to that of healthy subjects. Based on these findings, the use of FENOGLIDE should be avoided in patients who have severe renal impairment and dose reduction is required in patients having mild to moderate renal impairment. [See Dosage and Administration (2.4).]• Hepatic Impairment: No pharmacokinetic studies have been conducted in patients with hepatic impairment.• 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 CYP2C8, CYP2C19 and CYP2A6, and mild-to-moderate inhibitors of CYP2C9 at therapeutic concentrations. Table 2 describes the effects of co-administered drugs on fenofibric acid systemic exposure. Table 3 describes the effects of co-administered fenofibrate or fenofibric acid on systemic exposure of other drugs.
Table 2. Effects of Co-Administered Drugs on Fenofibric Acid Systemic Exposure from Fenofibrate Administration
Co-AdministeredDrug
Dosage Regimen ofCo-Administered Drug
Dosage Regimen of
Fenofibrate
Changes in FenofibricAcid Exposure
AUC
Cmax
Lipid-lowering agents
Atorvastatin
20 mg once daily for10 days
Fenofibrate 160 mgTriCor (fenofibrate) oral tablet once daily for 10 days
↓2%
↓4%
Pravastatin
40 mg as a single dose
Fenofibrate 3 x 67 mgTriCor (fenofibrate) oral micronized capsule as a single dose
↓1%
↓2%
Fluvastatin
40 mg as a single dose
Fenofibrate 160 mgas a single dose
↓2%
↓10%
Anti-diabetic agents
Glimepiride
1 mg as a single dose
Fenofibrate 145 mgonce daily for 10 days
↑1%
↓1%
Metformin
850 mg three times dailyfor 10 days
Fenofibrate 54 mgthreetimes daily for 10 days
↓9%
↓6%
Rosiglitazone
8 mg once daily for 5 days
Fenofibrate 145 mgonce daily for 14 days
↑10%
↑3%
Table 3. Effects of Fenofibrate Co-Administration on Systemic Exposure of Other Drugs
Dosage Regimen ofFenofibrate
Dosage Regimen ofCo-Administered Drug
Change in Co-Administered DrugExposure
Analyte
AUC
Cmax
Lipid-lowering agents
Fenofibrate 160 mgTriCor (fenofibrate) oral tablet once daily for 10 days
Atorvastatin, 20 mgonce daily for 10 days
Atorvastatin
↓17%
0%
Fenofibrate 3 x 67 mgTriCor (fenofibrate) oral micronized capsule as asingle dose
Pravastatin, 40 mgas a single dose
Pravastatin
↑13%
↑13%
3α-Hydroxyl-iso-pravastatin
↑26%
↑29%
Fenofibrate 160 mgas a single dose
Fluvastatin, 40 mgas a single dose
(+)-3R,5S-Fluvastatin
↑15%
↑16%
Anti-diabetic agents
Fenofibrate 145 mgonce daily for 10 days
Glimepiride, 1 mgas a single dose
Glimepiride
↑35%
↑18%
Fenofibrate 54 mgthree times daily for 10 days
Metformin, 850 mg threetimes daily for 10 days
Metformin
↑3%
↑6%
Fenofibrate 145 mgonce daily for 14 days
Rosiglitazone, 8 mg oncedaily for 5 days
Rosiglitazone
↑6%
↓1%
13 Nonclinical Toxicology
13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
Two dietary carcinogenicity studies have been conducted in rats with fenofibrate. In the first 24-month study, Wistar rats were dosed with fenofibrate at 10, 45, and 200 mg/kg/day, approximately 0.3, 1, and 6 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD), based on body surface area comparisons (mg/m2). At a dose of 200 mg/kg/day (at 6 times the MRHD), the incidence of liver carcinomas was significantly increased in both sexes. A statistically significant increase in pancreatic carcinomas was observed in males at 1 and 6 times the MRHD; an increase in pancreatic adenomas and benign testicular interstitial cell tumors was observed at 6 times the MRHD in males. In a second 24-month rat carcinogenicity study in a different strain of rats (Sprague-Dawley), doses of 10 and 60 mg/kg/day (0.3 and 2 times the MRHD) produced significant increases in the incidence of pancreatic acinar adenomas in both sexes and increases in testicular interstitial cell tumors in males at 2 times the MRHD.
A 117-week carcinogenicity study was conducted in rats comparing three drugs: fenofibrate 10 and 60 mg/kg/day (0.3 and 2 times the MRHD), clofibrate (400 mg/kg/day; 2 times the human dose), and gemfibrozil (250 mg/kg/day; 2 times the human dose, based on mg/m2 surface area). Fenofibrate increased pancreatic acinar adenomas in both sexes. Clofibrate increased hepatocellular carcinoma and pancreatic acinar adenomas in males and hepatic neoplastic nodules in females. Gemfibrozil increased hepatic neoplastic nodules in males and females, while all three drugs increased testicular interstitial cell tumors in males.
In a 21-month study in CF-1 mice, fenofibrate 10, 45, and 200 mg/kg/day (approximately 0.2, 1, and 3 times the MRHD on the basis of mg/m2 surface area) significantly increased the liver carcinomas in both sexes at 3 times the MRHD. In a second 18-month study at 10, 60, and 200 mg/kg/day, fenofibrate significantly increased the liver carcinomas in male mice and liver adenomas in female mice at 3 times the MRHD.
Electron microscopy studies have demonstrated peroxisomal proliferation following fenofibrate administration to the rat. An adequate study to test for peroxisome proliferation in humans has not been done, but changes in peroxisome morphology and numbers have been observed in humans after treatment with other members of the fibrate class when liver biopsies were compared before and after treatment in the same individual.
Mutagenesis: Fenofibrate has been demonstrated to be devoid of mutagenic potential in the following tests: Ames, mouse lymphoma, chromosomal aberration and unscheduled DNA synthesis in primary rat hepatocytes.
Impairment of Fertility: In fertility studies, rats were given oral dietary doses of fenofibrate; males received 61 days prior to mating and females 15 days prior to mating through weaning which resulted in no adverse effect on fertility at doses up to 300 mg/kg/day (~10 times the MRHD, based on mg/m2 surface area comparisons).
14 Clinical Studies
14.1 Primary Hypercholesterolemia (Heterozygous Familial and Nonfamilial) and Mixed Dyslipidemia
The effects of fenofibrate at a dose equivalent to 120 mg FENOGLIDE per day were assessed from four randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group studies including patients with the following mean baseline lipid values: total-C 306.9 mg/dL; LDL-C 213.8 mg/dL; HDL-C 52.3 mg/dL; and triglycerides 191.0 mg/dL. Fenofibrate therapy lowered LDL-C, Total-C, and the LDL-C/HDL-C ratio. Fenofibrate therapy also lowered triglycerides and raised HDL-C (see Table 4).
Table 4. Mean Percent Change in Lipid Parameters at End of Treatment Duration of study treatment was 3 to 6 months. Treatment Group Total-C LDL-C HDL-C TG
Pooled Cohort
 Mean baseline lipid values (n=646)
306.9 mg/dL
213.8 mg/dL
52.3 mg/dL
191.0 mg/dL
 All FEN (n=361)
-18.7%p=<0.05 vs. placebo
-20.6%
+11.0%
-28.9%
 Placebo (n=285)
-0.4%
-2.2%
+0.7%
+7.7%
Baseline LDL-C >160 mg/dL andTG <150 mg/dL (Type IIa)
 Mean baseline lipid values (n=334)
307.7 mg/dL
227.7 mg/dL
58.1 mg/dL
101.7 mg/dL
 All FEN (n=193)
-22.4%
-31.4%
+9.8%
-23.5%
 Placebo (n=141)
+0.2%
-2.2%
+2.6%
+11.7%
Baseline LDL-C >160 mg/dL andTG ≥150 mg/dL (Type IIb)
 Mean baseline lipid values (n=242)
312.8 mg/dL
219.8 mg/dL
46.7 mg/dL
231.9 mg/dL
 All FEN (n=126)
-16.8%
-20.1%
+14.6%
-35.9%
 Placebo (n=116)
-3.0%
-6.6%
+2.3%
+0.9%
In a subset of the subjects, measurements of apo B were conducted. Fenofibrate treatment significantly reduced apo B from baseline to endpoint as compared with placebo (-25.1% vs. 2.4%, p<0.0001, n=213 and 143 respectively).
14.2 Severe Hypertriglyceridemia
The effects of fenofibrate on serum triglycerides were studied in two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials of 147 hypertriglyceridemic patients. Patients were treated for eight weeks under protocols that differed only in that one entered patients with baseline TG levels of 500 to 1500 mg/dL, and the other TG levels of 350 to 500 mg/dL. In patients with hypertriglyceridemia and normal cholesterolemia with or without hyperchylomicronemia, treatment with fenofibrate at dosages equivalent to 120 mg FENOGLIDE (fenofibrate) Tablets per day decreased primarily very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) triglycerides and VLDL cholesterol. Treatment of patients with elevated triglycerides often results in an increase of LDL-C (see Table 5).
Table 5. Effects of Fenofibrate in Patients With Severe Hypertriglyceridemia
Study 1
Placebo
Fenofibrate
Baseline TG levels350 to 499 mg/dL
N
Baseline(Mean)
Endpoint(Mean)
%Change(Mean)
N
Baseline(Mean)
Endpoint(Mean)
%Change(Mean)
Triglycerides
28
449
450
-0.5
27
432
223
-46.2p=<0.05 vs. placebo
VLDL Triglycerides
19
367
350
2.7
19
350
178
-44.1
Total Cholesterol
28
255
261
2.8
27
252
227
-9.1
HDL Cholesterol
28
35
36
4
27
34
40
19.6
LDL Cholesterol
28
120
129
12
27
128
137
14.5
VLDL Cholesterol
27
99
99
5.8
27
92
46
-44.7
Study 2
Placebo
Fenofibrate
Baseline TG levels500 to 1500 mg/dL
N
Baseline(Mean)
Endpoint(Mean)
%Change(Mean)
N
Baseline(Mean)
Endpoint(Mean)
%Change(Mean)
Triglycerides
44
710
750
7.2
48
726
308
-54.5
VLDL Triglycerides
29
537
571
18.7
33
543
205
-50.6
Total Cholesterol
44
272
271
0.4
48
261
223
-13.8
HDL Cholesterol
44
27
28
5.0
48
30
36
22.9
LDL Cholesterol
42
100
90
-4.2
45
103
131
45.0
VLDL Cholesterol
42
137
142
11.0
45
126
54
-49.4
16 How Supplied/storage And Handling
FENOGLIDE (fenofibrate) Tablets 40 mg, are white to off-white oval tablets debossed "FLO" on one side and blank on the other side.
Bottle of 90 tablets, NDC 68012-490-90
FENOGLIDE (fenofibrate) Tablets 120 mg, are white to off-white oval tablets debossed "FHI" on one side and blank on the other side.
Bottle of 90 tablets, NDC 68012-495-90
Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].
17 Patient Counseling Information
Patients should be advised:
• of the potential benefits and risks of FENOGLIDE.• not to use FENOGLIDE if there is a known hypersensitivity to fenofibrate or fenofibric acid.• that if they are taking coumarin anticoagulants, FENOGLIDE may increase their anticoagulant effect, and increased monitoring may be necessary.• of medications that should not be taken in combination with FENOGLIDE.• to continue to follow an appropriate lipid-modifying diet while taking FENOGLIDE.• to take FENOGLIDE once daily, without regard to food, at the prescribed dose, swallowing each tablet whole.• to return to their physician’s office for routine monitoring.• to inform their physician of all medications, supplements, and herbal preparations they are taking and any change to their medical condition. Patients should also be advised to inform their physicians prescribing a new medication that they are taking FENOGLIDE.• to inform their physician of symptoms of liver injury (e.g., jaundice, abnormal pain, nausea, malaise, dark urine, abnormal stool, pruritus); any muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness; onset of abdominal pain; or any other new symptoms.• not to breastfeed during treatment with FENOGLIDE and for 5 days after the final dose.
Distributed by:
Salix Pharmaceuticals, a division of
Bausch Health US, LLC
Bridgewater, NJ 08807 USA
FENOGLIDE is a trademark of Salix Pharmaceuticals, Inc. or its affiliates.
© 2021 Salix Pharmaceuticals, Inc. or its affiliates
U.S. Patent Numbers: 7,658,944; 8,124,125; 8,481,078 and 9,173,847
9606803 70015724
Package Label.principal Display Panel
Bottle LABEL – PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL 40MG
NDC 68012-490-90 Fenoglide® (fenofibrate) Tablets
40 mg
90 TabletsRx onlySalix
Package Label.principal Display Panel
Bottle LABEL – PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL 120MG
NDC 68012-495-90 Fenoglide®
(fenofibrate)
tablets
120 mg
Rx only90 Tablets
Salix
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