MedPath

Fenofibric Acid

These highlights do not include all the information needed to use fenofibric acid tablets safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for fenofibric acid tablets. Fenofibric Acid Tablets, for oral use Initial U.S. Approval: 1993

Approved
Approval ID

bb559b34-79b1-45a6-a148-38639115cd49

Product Type

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG LABEL

Effective Date

Jan 18, 2021

Manufacturers
FDA

Palmetto Pharmaceuticals, Inc

DUNS: 963291864

Products 2

Detailed information about drug products covered under this FDA approval, including NDC codes, dosage forms, ingredients, and administration routes.

Fenofibric Acid

PRODUCT DETAILS

NDC Product Code68134-601
Application NumberNDA022418
Marketing CategoryC73605
Route of AdministrationORAL
Effective DateJanuary 18, 2021
Generic NameFenofibric Acid

INGREDIENTS (5)

Fenofibric AcidActive
Quantity: 35 mg in 1 1
Code: BGF9MN2HU1
Classification: ACTIB
Copovidone K25-31Inactive
Code: D9C330MD8B
Classification: IACT
crospovidoneInactive
Code: 2S7830E561
Classification: IACT
cellulose, microcrystallineInactive
Code: OP1R32D61U
Classification: IACT
magnesium stearateInactive
Code: 70097M6I30
Classification: IACT

Fenofibric Acid

PRODUCT DETAILS

NDC Product Code68134-602
Application NumberNDA022418
Marketing CategoryC73605
Route of AdministrationORAL
Effective DateJanuary 18, 2021
Generic NameFenofibric Acid

INGREDIENTS (5)

Fenofibric AcidActive
Quantity: 105 mg in 1 1
Code: BGF9MN2HU1
Classification: ACTIB
crospovidoneInactive
Code: 2S7830E561
Classification: IACT
Copovidone K25-31Inactive
Code: D9C330MD8B
Classification: IACT
magnesium stearateInactive
Code: 70097M6I30
Classification: IACT
cellulose, microcrystallineInactive
Code: OP1R32D61U
Classification: IACT

Drug Labeling Information

PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL

LOINC: 51945-4Updated: 5/30/2019

———PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 105 mg Tablet———

NDC: 68134-602-30
Rx Only

Fenofibric
Acid Tablets

105 mg

30 tablets

PALMETTO
PHARMACEUTICALS

Rev 08/20

![fenofibric acid 105 mg tablet](/dailymed/image.cfm?name=fenofibric- acid-105.jpg&id=542545)

INDICATIONS & USAGE SECTION

LOINC: 34067-9Updated: 5/30/2019

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

1.1 Severe Hypertriglyceridemia

Fenofibric acid tablets are indicated as adjunctive therapy to diet for treatment of severe hypertriglyceridemia (≥ 500 mg/dL). Improving glycemic control in diabetic patients showing fasting chylomicronemia will usually obviate the need for pharmacologic intervention.

Markedly elevated levels of serum triglycerides > 2000 mg/dL may increase the risk of developing pancreatitis. The effect of fenofibrate therapy on reducing this risk has not been adequately studied.

1.2 Primary Hypercholesterolemia or Mixed Dyslipidemia

Fenofibric acid tablets are 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 cholesterol (HDL-C) in patients with primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia.

1.3 Important Limitations of Use

Fenofibrate at a dose equivalent to 105 mg of fenofibric acid tablets was not shown to reduce coronary heart disease morbidity and mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Key Highlight

Fenofibric acid tablets is a peroxisome proliferator receptor alpha (PPARα) activator indicated as an adjunct to diet:

  • to reduce triglyceride (TG) levels in adult patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia (≥ 500 mg/dL) (1.1).
  • to reduce elevated total cholesterol (TC), low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), TG and apolipoprotein (Apo) B and to increase high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in adult patients with primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia (1.2).

Important Limitations of Use: Fenofibrate was not shown to reduce coronary heart disease morbidity and mortality in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (1.3).

CONTRAINDICATIONS SECTION

LOINC: 34070-3Updated: 9/30/2019

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS

Fenofibric acid tablets are contraindicated in:

  • patients with severe renal impairment, 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 (5.3)].
  • patients with preexisting gallbladder disease [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].
  • patients with known hypersensitivity to fenofibric acid or fenofibrate [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].
  • nursing mothers [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)].
Key Highlight
  • 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 fenofibric acid or fenofibrate (4)

ADVERSE REACTIONS SECTION

LOINC: 34084-4Updated: 5/30/2019

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice.

Adverse reactions reported by 2% or more of patients treated with fenofibrate (and greater than placebo) during the double-blind, placebo-controlled trials are listed in Table 1. Adverse reactions led to discontinuation of treatment in 5% of patients treated with fenofibrate and in 3% 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* During the Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trials

BODY SYSTEM
Adverse Reactions

Fenofibrate*
(N=439)

Placebo
(N=365)

  • Fenofibric acid is the active moiety of fenofibrate; Fenofibrate dosage equivalent to 105 mg fenofibric acid. †

    Significantly different from Placebo.

BODY AS A WHOLE

Abdominal Pain

4.6%

4.4%

Back Pain

3.4%

2.5%

Headache

3.2%

2.7%

DIGESTIVE

Abnormal Liver Function Tests

7.5%†

1.4%

Nausea

2.3%

1.9%

Constipation

2.1%

1.4%

METABOLIC AND NUTRITIONAL DISORDERS

Increased ALT

3.0%

1.6%

Increased CPK

3.0%

1.4%

Increased AST

3.4%†

0.5%

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.

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, muscle spasm, acute renal failure, hepatitis, cirrhosis, anemia, headache, arthralgia, decreases in hemoglobin, 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.

Key Highlight

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 Palmetto Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 864-673-8222 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.

DRUG INTERACTIONS SECTION

LOINC: 34073-7Updated: 9/30/2019

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS

7.1 Coumarin Anticoagulants

Potentiation of coumarin-type anticoagulant effects has been observed with prolongation of the PT/INR. Caution should be exercised when coumarin anticoagulants are given in conjunction with fenofibric acid tablets. The dosage of the anticoagulants should be reduced to maintain the prothrombin time/INR at the desired level to prevent bleeding complications. Frequent prothrombin time/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 Bile-Acid Binding Resins

Since bile-acid binding resins may bind other drugs given concurrently, patients should take fenofibric acid tablets at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after taking a bile-acid binding resin to avoid impeding its absorption.

7.3 Immunosuppressants

Immunosuppressant agents 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 fenofibric acid tablets, there is a risk that an interaction will lead to deterioration of renal function. The benefits and risks of using fenofibric acid tablets with immunosuppressants and other potentially nephrotoxic agents should be carefully considered, and the lowest effective dose employed and renal function monitored.

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.

Key Highlight
  • Coumarin Anticoagulants (7.1)
  • Bile-Acid Binding Resins (7.2)
  • Immunosuppressants (7.3)
  • Colchicine (7.4)

DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION SECTION

LOINC: 34068-7Updated: 5/30/2019

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

2.1 General Considerations

Fenofibric acid tablets can be given without regard to meals. Patients should be advised to swallow fenofibric acid tablets whole. Do not crush, dissolve or chew tablets.

Patients should be placed on an appropriate lipid-lowering diet before receiving fenofibric acid tablets and should continue this diet during treatment with fenofibric acid.

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.

Periodic determination of serum lipids should be obtained during initial therapy in order to establish the lowest effective dose of fenofibric acid tablets. Therapy should be withdrawn in patients who do not have an adequate response after two months of treatment with the maximum recommended dose of 105 mg per day.

Consideration should be given to reducing the dosage of fenofibric acid tablets if lipid levels fall significantly below the targeted range.

2.2 Severe Hypertriglyceridemia

The initial dose is 35 to 105 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 105 mg once daily.

2.3 Primary Hypercholesterolemia or Mixed Dyslipidemia

The dose of fenofibric acid tablets is 105 mg per day.

2.4 Impaired Renal Function

In patients with mild-to-moderate renal impairment, treatment with fenofibric acid tablets should be initiated at a dose of 35 mg once daily, and increased only after evaluation of the effects on renal function and lipid levels at this dose. The use of fenofibric acid tablets 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) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Key Highlight
  • Fenofibric acid tablets may be taken without regards to meals (2.1).
  • Severe hypertriglyceridemia: 35 to 105 mg/day; the dose should be adjusted according to patient response (2.2).
  • Primary hypercholesterolemia or mixed dyslipidemia: 105 mg/day (2.3).
  • Renally impaired patients: Initial dose of 35 mg once daily (2.4).
  • Geriatric patients: Select the dose on the basis of renal function (2.5).

DOSAGE FORMS & STRENGTHS SECTION

LOINC: 43678-2Updated: 5/30/2019

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

  • 35-mg: White, round tablets. Debossed "AR 787".
  • 105-mg: White, modified oval tablets. Debossed "AR 788".
Key Highlight

Oral Tablets: 35 mg and 105 mg (3)

USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS SECTION

LOINC: 43684-0Updated: 9/30/2019

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

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 135 mg daily, based on body surface area (mg/m2). Adverse reproductive outcomes occurred at higher doses in the presence of maternal toxicity (see Data). Fenofibric acid tablets 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 135 mg 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 fenofibric acid tablets and for 5 days after the final dose [see Contraindications (4)].

8.4 Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients.

8.5 Geriatric Use

Fenofibric acid tablets are 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 fenofibric acid tablets.

8.6 Renal Impairment

The use of fenofibric acid tablets should be avoided in patients who have 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 fenofibric acid tablets has not been evaluated in patients with hepatic impairment [see Contraindications (4)].

Key Highlight
  • Geriatric Use: Determine dose selection based on renal function (8.5).
  • Renal Impairment: Avoid in patients with severe renal impairment; dose reduction required in patients with mild-to-moderate renal impairment (8.6).

OVERDOSAGE SECTION

LOINC: 34088-5Updated: 5/30/2019

10 OVERDOSAGE

There is no specific treatment for overdose with fenofibric acid tablets. 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 fenofibric acid is highly bound to plasma proteins, hemodialysis should not be considered.

DESCRIPTION SECTION

LOINC: 34089-3Updated: 5/30/2019

11 DESCRIPTION

Fenofibric acid is a lipid regulating agent available as tablets for oral administration. Each tablet contains 35 mg or 105 mg of fenofibric acid. The chemical name for fenofibric acid is 2-[4-(4-chlorobenzoyl)phenoxy]-2-methylpropanoic acid with the following structural formula:

![Structural Formula](/dailymed/image.cfm?name=structural- formula.jpg&id=542545)

Fenofibric acid is a white to almost white crystalline powder that is stable under ordinary conditions, and has a melting point of 179 – 183°C. Its empirical formula is C17H15ClO4 and molecular weight 318.75. Fenofibric acid is insoluble in water; its solubility increases with pH in buffered media.

Inactive Ingredients: Each tablet contains copovidone, crospovidone, magnesium stearate and microcrystalline cellulose.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY SECTION

LOINC: 34090-1Updated: 5/30/2019

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

12.1 Mechanism of Action

The active moiety of fenofibric acid tablets 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-modifying 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 α (PPARα). Through this mechanism, fenofibric acid 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 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 associated with human atherosclerosis. Similarly, decreased levels of HDL-C and its transport complex, apolipoprotein A (apo AI and apo AII) are associated with 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 triglycerides (TG) on the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality has not been determined.

Fenofibric acid, the active metabolite of fenofibrate, produces reductions in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, apolipoprotein B, total triglycerides and triglyceride rich lipoprotein (VLDL) in treated patients. In addition, treatment with fenofibrate results in increases in high density lipoprotein (HDL) and apolipoproteins apo AI and apo AII.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

Absorption

The absolute bioavailability of fenofibric acid tablets has not been determined as the compound is virtually insoluble in aqueous media suitable for injection. Following oral administration of fenofibric acid tablets in healthy volunteers, median peak plasma levels of fenofibric acid occur by approximately 2.5 hours after administration. Exposure after administration of 3 × 35 mg fenofibric acid tablets is comparable to 1 × 105 mg fenofibric acid tablets.

A food-effect study involving administration of fenofibric acid tablets to healthy volunteers under fasting conditions and with a high-fat meal indicated that the Cmax was decreased by approximately 35% while the AUC remained unchanged. This decrease in exposure is not considered clinically significant, and therefore fenofibric acid tablets can be taken without regards to meals.

The extent and rate of absorption of fenofibric acid after administration of 105 mg fenofibric acid tablets are equivalent to those after administration of 145 mg fenofibrate tablets (TriCor®) under fasted conditions.

Distribution

Upon multiple dosing of fenofibrate, fenofibric acid steady state is achieved within 9 days. Plasma concentrations of fenofibric acid at steady state are slightly more than double those following a single dose. Serum protein binding was approximately 99% in normal and hyperlipidemic subjects.

Metabolism

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 vitro and in vivo metabolism data indicate that fenofibric acid does not undergo oxidative metabolism (e.g. cytochrome P450) to a significant extent. The enzymes CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP2E1, and CYP3A4 do not play a role in the metabolism of fenofibric acid.

Elimination

After absorption, fenofibric acid is eliminated with a half-life of approximately 20 hours, allowing once-daily dosing.

Specific Populations

Geriatrics: In five 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 an equivalent dose of fenofibric acid tablets can be used in elderly subjects with normal renal function, without increasing accumulation of the drug or metabolites [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5) and Dosage and Administration (2.5)].

Pediatrics: The pharmacokinetics of fenofibric acid tablets 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 fenofibric acid has not been studied, however, fenofibric acid is not metabolized by enzymes known for exhibiting inter-ethnic variability.

Renal Impairment: The pharmacokinetics of fenofibric acid was examined in patients with mild, moderate, and severe renal impairment. Patients with severe renal impairment (Estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR]<30 mL/min/1.73m2) showed a 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 (eGFR 30 – 59 mL/min/1.73m2) renal impairment 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 fenofibric acid tablets should be avoided in patients who have severe renal impairment and dose reduction is required in patients with mild-to-moderate renal impairment.

Hepatic Impairment: No pharmacokinetic studies of fenofibric acid 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 fenofibric acid on exposure to other drugs.

Table 2. Effects of Co-Administered Drugs on Fenofibric Acid Systemic Exposure from Fenofibric Acid Tablets or Fenofibrate Administration
  • TriCor® (fenofibrate) oral tablet †

    TriCor® (fenofibrate) oral micronized capsule

Co-Administered Drug

Dosage Regimen of Co-Administered Drug

Dosage Regimen of Fenofibrate

Changes in Fenofibric Acid Exposure

AUC

Cmax

No dosing adjustment required for fenofibric acid tablets with the following co-administered drugs

Lipid-lowering agents

Atorvastatin

20 mg once daily for 10 days

Fenofibrate 160 mg* once daily for 10 days

↓2%

↓4%

Pravastatin

40 mg as a single dose

Fenofibrate 3 × 67 mg † as a single dose

↓1%

↓2%

Fluvastatin

40 mg as a single dose

Fenofibrate 160 mg* as a single dose

↓2%

↓10%

Anti-diabetic agents

Glimepiride

1 mg as a single dose

Fenofibrate 145 mg* once daily for 10 days

↑1%

↓1%

Metformin

850 mg three times daily for 10 days

Fenofibrate 54 mg* three times daily for 10 days

↓9%

↓6%

Rosiglitazone

8 mg once daily for 5 days

Fenofibrate 145 mg* once daily for 14 days

↑10%

↑3%

Table 3. Effects of Fenofibric Acid Tablets or Fenofibrate Co- Administration on Systemic Exposure of Other Drugs
  • TriCor® (fenofibrate) oral tablet †

    TriCor® (fenofibrate) oral micronized capsule

Dosage Regimen of Fenofibrate

Dosage Regimen of Co-Administered Drug

Change in Co-Administered Drug Exposure

Analyte

AUC

Cmax

No dosing adjustment required for these co-administered drugs with fenofibric acid tablets

Lipid-lowering agents

Fenofibrate 160 mg* once daily for 10 days

Atorvastatin, 20 mg once daily for 10 days

Atorvastatin

↓17%

0%

Fenofibrate 3 × 67 mg † as a single dose

Pravastatin, 40 mg as a single dose

Pravastatin

↑13%

↑13%

3α-hydroxyl-iso-pravastatin

↑26%

↑29%

Fenofibrate 160 mg* once daily for 10 days

Pravastatin, 40 mg once daily for 10 days

Pravastatin

↑28%

↑36%

3α-hydroxyl-iso-pravastatin

↑39%

↑55%

Fenofibrate 160 mg* as a single dose

Fluvastatin, 40 mg as a single dose

(+)-3R, 5S-Fluvastatin

↑15%

↑16%

Anti-diabetic agents

Fenofibrate 145 mg* once daily for 10 days

Glimepiride, 1 mg as a single dose

Glimepiride

↑35%

↑18%

Fenofibrate 54 mg* three times daily for 10 days

Metformin, 850 mg three times daily for 10 days

Metformin

↑3%

↑6%

Fenofibrate 145 mg* once daily for 14 days

Rosiglitazone, 8 mg once daily for 5 days

Rosiglitazone

↑6%

↓1%

Anti-viral agents

Fenofibric acid tablets 105 mg once daily for 10 days

Efavirenz, 600 mg as a single dose

Efavirenz

↓8%

↑1%

NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY SECTION

LOINC: 43680-8Updated: 9/30/2019

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) of 300 mg fenofibrate daily, equivalent to 105 mg of fenofibric acid tablets daily, based on body surface area comparisons. 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, based on body surface area comparisons), 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, based on body surface area comparisons) 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.

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.

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 body surface area comparisons).

CLINICAL STUDIES SECTION

LOINC: 34092-7Updated: 5/30/2019

14 CLINICAL STUDIES

14.1 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 protocol entered patients with baseline triglyceride (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 105 mg of fenofibric acid tablets decreased primarily very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) triglycerides and VLDL cholesterol. Treatment of some with elevated triglycerides often results in an increase of low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (see Table 4).

Table 4. Effects of Fenofibrate in Patients with Severe Hypertriglyceridemia
  • = p < 0.05 vs. Placebo

Study 1

Placebo

Fenofibrate

Baseline TG levels 350 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

-46.2*

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 levels 500 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*

14.2 Primary Hypercholesterolemia (Heterozygous Familial and Nonfamilial)

and Mixed Dyslipidemia

The effects of fenofibrate at doses equivalent to 105 mg of fenofibric acid tablets 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 5).

Table 5. Mean Percent Change in Lipid Parameters at End of Fenofibrate Treatment *

Treatment Group

Total-C

LDL-C

HDL-C

TG

  • Duration of study treatment was 3 to 6 months. †

    p = < 0.05 vs. Placebo

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%†

-20.6%†

+11.0%†

-28.9%†

Placebo (n=285)

-0.4%

-2.2%

+0.7%

+7.7%

Baseline LDL-C >160 mg/dL and TG <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 and TG ≥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, measurement of Apo B was 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).

The effect of fenofibric acid on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality has not been determined.

HOW SUPPLIED SECTION

LOINC: 34069-5Updated: 12/1/2020

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING

Fenofibric acid tablets 35 mg, are white, round tablets, debossed "AR 787" on one side and blank on the other side.

Bottles of 30

NDC 68134-601-30

Fenofibric acid tablets 105 mg, are white, modified oval tablets, debossed "AR 788" on one side and blank on the other side.

Bottles of 30

NDC 68134-602-30

Store at USP controlled room temperature 20-25ºC (68-77ºF); excursions permitted to 15-30ºC (59-86ºF)

DISPENSE IN TIGHT, LIGHT-RESISTANT CONTAINER.

INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS SECTION

LOINC: 34076-0Updated: 9/30/2019

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

Patients should be advised:

  • of the potential benefits and risks of fenofibric acid tablets.
  • not to use fenofibric acid tablets if there is a known hypersensitivity to fenofibrate or fenofibric acid.
  • that if they are taking coumarin anticoagulants, fenofibric acid tablets may increase their anticoagulant effect, and increased monitoring may be necessary.
  • of medications that should not be taken in combination with fenofibric acid tablets.
  • to continue to follow an appropriate lipid-modifying diet while taking fenofibric acid tablets.
  • to take fenofibric acid tablets once daily, without regard to food, at the prescribed dose, swallowing each tablet whole.
  • 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 fenofibric acid tablets.
  • to inform their physician of any muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness; onset of abdominal pain; or any other new symptoms.
  • to return to their physician's office for routine monitoring.
  • not to breastfeed during treatment with fenofibric acid tablets and for 5 days after the final dose.

SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION

LOINC: 42229-5Updated: 9/30/2019

TriCor® is a registered trademark of Abbott Laboratories.

** Manufactured for:**

** Palmetto Pharmaceuticals, Inc.**

** Greenville, SC 29615**

Revised 09/2019

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Fenofibric Acid - FDA Drug Approval Details