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Lipicard-AV

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Lipicard-AV

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Method of action: Lipid Modifying Agents

Treatment option:

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

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Overview of Lipicard-AV

Property Description
Active ingredients Atorvastatin, Fenofibrate
Form Oral tablet (Film-coated)
Pharmacological class Antihyperlipidemic (Lipid-modifying) agents
General purpose Management of mixed dyslipidemia
Origin Synthetic

Defining Lipicard-AV: Identity and Pharmacological Class

Lipicard-AV is a fixed-dose combination (FDC) medicine that belongs to the therapeutic class of antihyperlipidemic agents. This single, film-coated oral tablet contains two distinct, synthetically derived active ingredients: Atorvastatin and Fenofibrate. The medicine is typically available by prescription only (Rx), intended for adult patient groups.

The composition is designed for a comprehensive approach to managing abnormal blood lipid levels. Atorvastatin is classified as a statin, specifically an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, which acts to reduce the internal production of cholesterol primarily in the liver. Concurrently, Fenofibrate is a fibric acid derivative (fibrate), which enhances the metabolism of fats. The use of a fixed-dose combination ensures the synchronous administration of these two agents, a strategy intended to promote patient adherence in chronic conditions.

The Purpose of Combination Therapy and General Benefit

The general purpose of Lipicard-AV is the comprehensive modification of blood lipids to manage mixed dyslipidemia. This condition is characterized by having both elevated harmful cholesterol and elevated triglycerides simultaneously. A common scenario involves patients whose lipid parameters remain inadequately controlled by monotherapy with a statin alone.

The medicine leverages the distinct actions of its two components to achieve a synergistic effect. The statin component addresses the cholesterol aspect, chiefly by lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), while the fibrate component addresses the triglyceride aspect, promoting the clearance of these excess fats and aiding in the elevation of beneficial high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). By targeting these two separate biological pathways with a single product, the medicine provides a balanced approach to correct multiple lipid abnormalities.

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What side effects are possible with Lipicard-AV?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The combination of two lipid-regulating agents in Lipicard-AV is associated with a range of possible adverse reactions and specific safety precautions documented in regulatory labeling.

Adverse Reaction Profile

Adverse Reaction Category Common Examples Serious (Rare) Events
Musculoskeletal Myalgia (muscle pain), arthralgia (joint pain), pain in extremity Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown with potential for kidney failure), Immune-Mediated Necrotizing Myopathy (IMNM)
Gastrointestinal Nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence Pancreatitis, Gallstone formation
Hepatic/Metabolic Increased liver enzymes (elevated serum transaminases), increased blood glucose Fatal and non-fatal hepatic failure/liver damage
Other Headache, nasopharyngitis, insomnia Hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis, angioedema)

Safety Monitoring and Restrictions

Musculoskeletal Risk: The drug should be immediately discontinued if myopathy is diagnosed or suspected, or if creatine phosphokinase (CK) levels are significantly elevated. Factors increasing the risk of muscle problems include advanced age, renal impairment, uncontrolled hypothyroidism, and higher doses of the medication.

Hepatic Risk: Lipicard-AV is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease or unexplained, persistent elevation of liver transaminase levels. Liver enzyme testing should be considered prior to and during treatment, as clinically indicated.

Contraindications: The medicine is strictly contraindicated during pregnancy (due to potential fetal harm) and breastfeeding. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe kidney disease, active liver disease, and pre-existing gallbladder disease.

Drug and Food Interactions: Caution is advised when consuming alcohol due to the potential for increased risk of liver problems. Large quantities of grapefruit juice should be avoided, as this may increase the risk of muscular adverse effects.

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Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

Overdose with Lipicard-AV (a combination of Fenofibrate and Atorvastatin) is expected to cause an exaggeration of known side effects, with primary regulatory concerns focused on severe systemic toxicity rather than specific acute symptoms.

There is no specific antidote documented for an overdose of this medication. Treatment must focus on supportive and symptomatic care in a clinical setting.


Documented Severe Outcomes

Official regulatory information emphasizes the need for urgent attention due to the risk of life-threatening complications, including:

  • Rhabdomyolysis: Breakdown of muscle tissue, which can lead to Acute Renal Failure (kidney damage).
  • Severe Hepatotoxicity: Significant liver injury (indicated by elevated liver enzymes).

Required Emergency Action

Immediate medical help must be sought if an overdose is suspected. Contact emergency services or a Poison Control Center right away. Urgent medical attention is required when:

  • Muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness occurs, especially when accompanied by fever or malaise (signs of rhabdomyolysis).
  • Symptoms of liver injury develop, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes), dark urine, or upper abdominal pain.

Due to the drugs' high binding to plasma proteins, regulatory documents indicate that hemodialysis is unlikely to be effective in removing the drug from the body. Treatment involves monitoring of vital signs and laboratory tests, such as Creatine Kinase (CK) levels and liver function tests, and measures to prevent further absorption (e.g., gastric lavage).

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Therapeutic Uses of Lipicard-AV

Quick Facts

  • Therapeutic Domain: Management of abnormal lipid levels.
  • Primary Uses: Adjunct to diet for hypercholesterolemia, mixed dyslipidemia, and severe hypertriglyceridemia.
  • Associated Benefit: Supports a reduction in cardiovascular risk.

Lipicard-AV is a prescription medication utilized in adults as an adjunct to diet and lifestyle modification to support the management of elevated lipid parameters in the blood. The drug is indicated for individuals requiring intervention for conditions such as primary hypercholesterolemia, mixed dyslipidemia, and severe hypertriglyceridemia, where elevated lipid levels may contribute to potential health concerns.

The therapeutic purpose of this medication is to help reduce the level of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C, or 'bad cholesterol'), total cholesterol, and triglycerides (fats) circulating in the bloodstream. Furthermore, its components work to assist in the increase of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C, or 'good cholesterol'). Achieving acceptable lipid parameters is a key step in reducing the risk of certain cardiovascular events, which is an important aspect of a comprehensive treatment plan for dyslipidemia. It may be used to reduce the risk of non-fatal myocardial infarction, stroke, and certain revascularization procedures in adults with multiple risk factors or clinically evident coronary heart disease (CHD). The full treatment program requires commitment to diet, physical activity, and weight management.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus guidance on fenofibrate and atorvastatin
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Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Regulatory Eligibility for Lipicard-AV

Lipicard-AV is generally approved for use in adults (18 years of age and older). The eligibility profile is strictly defined by the combination of contraindications for its two components, Atorvastatin and Fenofibrate.

Category Regulatory Status
Populations for whom use is allowed (as stated in label): Adults with mixed dyslipidemia whose lipid levels are inadequately controlled by statin monotherapy.
Populations for whom use is contraindicated: Individuals with active liver disease (including unexplained persistent transaminase elevations), severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m^2), pre-existing gallbladder disease, or known hypersensitivity to any component.
Pregnancy and lactation eligibility status: Contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation/breastfeeding. Women of childbearing potential are advised to use effective contraception during treatment.
Age-related eligibility rules: Not recommended for use in children and adolescents (under 18 years of age) as safety and efficacy data are not established for the combination product. Older adults may require caution due to increased risk factors.
Condition-specific eligibility restrictions: Restricted use and close monitoring are necessary for patients with uncontrolled hypothyroidism or moderate renal impairment (e.g., eGFR 30 to <60 mL/min/1.73 m^2), as these conditions increase the risk of adverse effects.

Official regulatory documents define non-eligibility by listing specific, absolute criteria tied to organ function, reproductive status, and allergic history. The medicine is prohibited for populations with these formal contraindications, which are derived from the risk profiles of both the statin and fibrate components.

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What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official regulatory profile for Lipicard-AV (Atorvastatin/Fenofibrate) defines specific interaction patterns that can significantly alter drug exposure or increase toxicity risk, requiring formal restrictions.

Contraindicated Combinations

Co-administration is explicitly prohibited with strong inhibitors of the enzyme CYP3A4, such as Ciclosporin, or specific combinations of HIV/HCV antivirals, including Glecaprevir/Pibrentasvir. The fenofibrate component is contraindicated with other fibric acid derivatives like Gemfibrozil, due to the formally documented high risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.


Pharmacodynamic and Exposure Alterations

Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, such as Clarithromycin and Itraconazole, increase the plasma concentrations of Atorvastatin, necessitating restrictions on the maximum dose permitted. The fenofibrate component may potentiate the effect of oral coumarin anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin), a pharmacodynamic interaction that requires the formal monitoring of the International Normalized Ratio (INR). Certain agents, including Colchicine or Niacin (geq 1 g/day), increase the documented risk of skeletal muscle effects when combined with the statin component.


Administration Timing and Other Substances

To prevent absorption interference, the fenofibrate component requires mandatory separation from bile-acid binding resins by administering the medicine at least one hour before or four to six hours after the resin. Consumption of large quantities of Grapefruit Juice is documented to increase the systemic exposure of Atorvastatin. The overall interaction risk is noted to be heightened in populations with renal impairment.

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Mechanism of Action

How Lipicard-AV Works: Mechanism of Action

Lipicard-AV's action is achieved through two distinct, coordinated mechanisms that target the core processes of lipid production and clearance.

Inhibition of Cholesterol Synthesis

The Atorvastatin component acts by competitively inhibiting the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme, which is the critical, rate-limiting step in the liver's mevalonate pathway for manufacturing cholesterol. This targeted blockade leads to a diminished internal cholesterol pool, which triggers the liver to up-regulate (increase) the number of extbfLDL extbfreceptors on its cell surface. The resulting physiological effect is an acceleration of plasma LDL-C clearance from the bloodstream.

PPARalpha Modulation of Triglyceride Catabolism

The Fenofibrate component works by acting as an agonist for the nuclear receptor Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor alpha (, PPARalpha). This activation alters genetic transcription to boost factors like extbflipoprotein lipase (, LPL) and reduce factors that inhibit fat breakdown, like extbfApolipoprotein C-III. This molecular change accelerates the breakdown and removal (catabolism) of triglyceride-rich VLDL and chylomicrons, resulting in the physiological consequence of reduced plasma triglyceride concentration.

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Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Lipicard-AV

Lipicard-AV is a fixed-dose combination (FDC) medicine containing Atorvastatin and Fenofibrate. Its proper use is governed by instructions concerning the method, frequency, timing, and specific circumstances of administration.


Official Administration Guidelines

The following instructions detail how the tablet is administered, serving as a standardized protocol for its use.

Instruction Domain Requirement
Route and Form Must be administered orally as a whole tablet. The tablet should not be crushed, broken, or chewed.
Dosing Frequency The medicine is taken once daily (OD).
Timing and Food Can be taken at any time of the day, and intake is permitted with or without food.
Missed Dose Rule If a dose is missed, do not take an extra dose to compensate. Resume the regular schedule with the next planned daily dose.

Population and Procedural Constraints

Specific conditions govern the drug's use in certain situations:

  • Pediatric Use: The combination product is not generally recommended for use in children and adolescents under 18 years of age.
  • Concomitant Medication: If a patient is taking a bile acid-binding resin (e.g., cholestyramine), the Lipicard-AV tablet must be administered at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours after the resin to prevent interference with absorption.

This regimen establishes a standardized protocol for the chronic management of abnormal lipid levels as an adjunct to diet, requiring patient adherence to the once-daily oral route for correct systemic delivery.

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Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence: Overview of Studies for Lipicard-AV


Evidence for Management of Mixed Dyslipidemia

Research exploring Lipicard-AV has primarily studied how the combination is associated with the different types of fats, or lipids, found in the blood. Studies for this use are generally short-term randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving adults with mixed dyslipidemia (elevated LDL-C and triglycerides). These studies examined differences when the fixed-dose combination was used against the statin component alone. Researchers monitored shifts in key lipid biomarkers such as non-HDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Because these trials typically last only a few months, the long-term effects on the maintenance of these lipid changes are not fully established.


Evidence Related to Cardiovascular Risk Reduction

Research examined patterns related to major clinical events, such as a non-fatal heart attack or stroke. Dedicated long-term RCTs for this specific fixed-dose combination are not widely available. Instead, the evidence draws information from large-scale trials that studied the individual components (statin and fibrate) and performed subgroup analyses. These analyses examined the incidence of Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events (MACEs) in adults with established heart disease or specific lipid profiles like atherogenic dyslipidemia. The certainty remains low regarding the direct, long-term impact of the Lipicard-AV fixed-dose combination itself on the incidence of these clinical events, as the evidence is largely indirect.


Evidence in Specific Patient Groups and Limitations

The research primarily focused on a broad population of adults, including those with conditions like Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) who also had abnormal lipid levels. Data for certain other groups, such as children or pregnant individuals, remain insufficient. The available evidence landscape highlights key limitations: the follow-up durations for lipid-change studies were short, and there is a relative absence of dedicated, long-term clinical outcome trials for the fixed-dose combination.

Key Studies & References Fenofibrate and Atorvastatin Oral: MedlinePlus Drug Information

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Lipicard-AV (FAQ)

Q: How should I store Lipicard-AV tablets at home?

Official regulatory documents advise storing Lipicard-AV in its original, closed container at a controlled room temperature, typically between 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F). The medicine should be protected from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light, as required by the product label. For safety, the tablets must be kept out of the sight and reach of children and pets.


Q: What is the primary benefit of taking both atorvastatin and fenofibrate together?

According to the official product information, the primary benefit of this combination medicine is the comprehensive management of mixed dyslipidemia. This condition involves having abnormal blood lipid levels, specifically elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and elevated triglycerides. The two components work together as an adjunct to diet when statin-alone therapy has not been sufficient to reach specific lipid goals.


Q: What kind of clinical trial evidence supports the use of Lipicard-AV?

Clinical studies have shown that the combination is associated with positive changes in lipid biomarkers, such as lowering LDL-C and triglycerides, in adults with mixed dyslipidemia. While these studies assessed its effect on blood lipid levels, the long-term evidence regarding the reduction of major clinical events like heart attack or stroke is often indirect, drawn primarily from large-scale trials of the individual components.


Q: Is Lipicard-AV a brand name or a generic drug?

Lipicard-AV is a brand name for a fixed-dose combination product. It contains two distinct active ingredients: the cholesterol-lowering agent Atorvastatin and the triglyceride-lowering agent Fenofibrate. This single tablet contains a specific dosage of both these drugs.


Q: Does Lipicard-AV require a prescription?

Yes, Lipicard-AV is a prescription-only medicine. This requirement is noted on the official drug labeling, often identified with the regulatory designation Rx Only.

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How should Lipicard-AV be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Lipicard-AV?

Strict adherence to official storage and disposal requirements is necessary to maintain the quality and integrity of Lipicard-AV tablets (Atorvastatin/Fenofibrate).


Official Storage Requirements

Requirement Condition
Temperature Store at controlled room temperature, typically 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F).
Environment Keep away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze.
Packaging Must remain in its original, closed container until the time of use.
Safety Mandatory requirement: Keep out of the sight and reach of children and pets.

Official Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Lipicard-AV must not be disposed of in household trash or flushed down a toilet. Instead, disposal must follow professional or local controlled-waste requirements. Consult a healthcare professional or pharmacist for instructions on proper disposal.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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