No, Tricor (fenofibrate) is not a statin drug. It belongs to a different class of medications called fibrates.
Statins, like atorvastatin (Lipitor) and simvastatin (Zocor), primarily lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. Fibrates, on the other hand, work by lowering triglycerides and raising HDL (“good”) cholesterol. They can also improve the body’s ability to clear away cholesterol.
Doctors often prescribe Tricor to patients with high triglycerides, especially those also experiencing low HDL cholesterol. This combination often indicates a higher risk for heart disease.
While both statins and fibrates help manage cholesterol and reduce cardiovascular risk, they achieve this through different mechanisms. Your doctor will determine the best medication based on your individual lipid profile and overall health.
Always consult your physician before starting, stopping, or altering any medication, including Tricor or statins. They can help you understand the potential benefits and risks associated with these medications.
