Can I take Fenofibrate and Gabapentin together?

Why this happens

Fenofibrate is primarily broken down by the liver and affects blood fats (lipids). Gabapentin is not metabolised by the liver; it is filtered out of the body unchanged by the kidneys. Because they use different pathways for processing and elimination, they do not interfere with each other's levels in the blood.

What you should do

You can safely take these two medicines together as prescribed by your doctor. Always ensure your doctor is aware of all the medicines you are taking, including supplements and over-the-counter products. If you experience any unusual muscle pain or weakness (a rare side effect of fenofibrate) or extreme drowsiness (a side effect of gabapentin), contact your healthcare provider.

Important precautions

Muscle pain or weakness - fenofibrate

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness. This can rarely lead to serious kidney problems. The risk is higher if you also take a 'statin' medicine.

Breathing problems or opioid use

Gabapentin can cause severe breathing difficulties, particularly if you already have lung disease, are elderly, or are taking opioid painkillers. Seek urgent medical help if you experience shallow breathing or extreme sleepiness.

Mental health changes - gabapentin

A small number of people may experience suicidal thoughts or changes in mood. You must alert your doctor or a family member immediately if you notice any new or worsening depression or thoughts of self-harm.

Abrupt discontinuation

Do not stop taking gabapentin suddenly. Doing so can cause serious side effects, including an increase in seizure frequency or severe withdrawal symptoms. Your dose must be reduced gradually.

Gallstones or gallbladder disease

Do not take fenofibrate if you have gallbladder disease or a history of gallstones, as fenofibrate can increase the risk of developing stones.

Severe kidney or liver disease

Fenofibrate must not be used if you have severe kidney or liver problems.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol when taking fenofibrate. Fenofibrate is used to lower fats (lipids) in the blood, and drinking alcohol can increase your triglyceride levels, making the medicine less effective. Additionally, both alcohol and fenofibrate can put strain on your liver; combining them increases the risk of liver damage.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking gabapentin. Combining alcohol with gabapentin can significantly increase the risk of severe drowsiness, dizziness, and breathing difficulties. It may also impair your coordination and judgment more than usual.

High-fat meals

The way you take fenofibrate depends on the specific brand and formulation you have been prescribed. Some versions (such as standard tablets or capsules) must be taken with food to help the body absorb the medicine properly. Other versions (such as 'micronised' or 'supracontin' tablets) can be taken with or without food. Check your patient information leaflet or ask your pharmacist which type you have.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.