Fenofibrate/simvastatin fixed-dose combination in the treatment of mixed dyslipidemia: safety, efficacy, and place in therapy

Abstract

Nicola Tarantino,1 Francesco Santoro,1,2 Luisa De Gennaro,3 Michele Correale,1 Francesca Guastafierro,1 Antonio Gaglione,1 Matteo Di Biase,1 Natale Daniele Brunetti1 1University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy; 2Asklepios Klinik – St Georg, Hamburg, Germany; 3Ospedale San Paolo, Bari, Italy Abstract: Lipids disorder is the principal cause of atherosclerosis and may present with several forms, according to blood lipoprotein prevalence. One of the most common forms is combined dyslipidemia, characterized by high levels of triglycerides and low level of high-density lipoprotein. Single lipid-lowering drugs may have very selective effect on lipoproteins; hence, the need to use multiple therapy against dyslipidemia. However, the risk of toxicity is a concerning issue. In this review, the effect and safety of an approved combination therapy with simvastatin plus fenofibrate are described, with an analysis of pros and cons resulting from randomized multicenter trials, meta-analyses, animal models, and case reports as well. Keywords: fibrates, simvastatin, fixed-dose combination, combined dyslipidemia, review

Keywords

• Fibrates
• Simvastatin
• Fixed Dose Combination
• Combined Dyslipidemia
• Review.