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Fenofibrate
Depletes
Prolonged use of Fenofibrate can impact 4 essential nutrients.
B12
Research demonstrates that fibrates, particularly fenofibrate, are known to increase homocysteine levels. Elevated levels of homocysteine is associated with increased risk of a range of health problems including atherosclerosis, stroke, and neurological diseases, and vitamin Bs including vitamin B12 helps facilitate the breakdown of homocysteine and may be helpful in reducing homocysteine levels.
Replace with Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin) (100 mcg)
Research: Dierkes J, Westphal S, Kunstmann S, Banditt P, Lössner A, Luley C. Vitamin supplementation can markedly reduce the...
Vitamin C
Fenofibrate has been shown in studies to increase the toxic effect of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that may lead to side effects such as hives, itching, and skin rash. Taking vitamin C before UV exposure is found in research to significantly help block UV-fenofibrate effects on the skin. Vitamin C supplementation should be considered when taking this drug therapy.
Replace with Vitamin C (Asorbic Acid) (125 mg)
Research: Eberlein-Konig B, Placzek M, Przybilla B. Phototoxic lysis of erythrocytes from humans is reduced after oral intake of...
Vitamin B6
Research demonstrates that fibrates, particularly fenofibrate, are known to increase homocysteine levels. Elevated levels of homocysteine is associated with increased risk of a range of health problems including atherosclerosis, stroke, and neurological diseases, and vitamin Bs including vitamin B6 helps facilitate the breakdown of homocysteine and may be helpful in reducing homocysteine levels.
Replace with B6 Blend {Pyridoxine HCl + Pyridoxal -5-Phosphate (P5P) (5mg)
Research: Foucher C, Brugère L, Ansquer JC. Fenofibrate, homocysteine and renal function. Curr Vasc Pharmacol. 2010 Sep;8(5):589-603....
Vitamin E
Fenofibrate has been shown in studies to increase the toxic effect of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that may lead to side effects such as hives, itching, and skin rash. Taking vitamin E before UV exposure is found in research to significantly help block UV-fenofibrate effects on the skin. Vitamin E supplementation should be considered when taking this drug therapy.
Replace with Vitamin E (d-alpha-tocopherol and mixed tocopherols) (30 IU)
Research: Eberlein-Konig B, Placzek M, Przybilla B. Phototoxic lysis of erythrocytes from humans is reduced after oral intake of...
Health Impact
Fenofibrate-induced nutrient depletion can lead to a range of health problems
Scurvy & Fragile Blood Vessels
Modern case reports and re-analyses of classic scurvy trials show that vitamin C deficiency causes defective collagen and capillary integrity, with slow recovery of scar strength even after repletion if deficiency is prolonged.
Research: Gandhi M et al. Scurvy: rediscovering a forgotten disease. Clin Case Rep. 2023;11(6):e10296835.; Hujoel PP, Hujoel MLA....
Delayed Wound Healing & Fatigue
Systematic reviews report improved healing of chronic wounds with vitamin C supplementation in deficient or high-need states, supporting the clinical impact of inadequate ascorbate on tissue repair.
Research: Bechara N et al. The role of vitamin C in tissue repair and wound healing: a systematic review. Int Wound J....
Peripheral Neuropathy From B6 Imbalance
Systematic reviews and regulatory safety assessments describe peripheral neuropathy as a consequence of B6 deficiency as well as toxicity; recent pharmacovigilance data have prompted dose restrictions in some countries.
Research: Muhamad R et al. The role of vitamin B6 in peripheral neuropathy: a systematic review. Nutrients. 2023;15(7):1691.;...
B6-Related Anemia & Skin Changes
Clinical reviews note that B6 deficiency manifests with microcytic or sideroblastic anemia, skin changes and neuropsychiatric symptoms, especially in settings of malnutrition, certain drugs or alcoholism.
Research: Schellack N et al. Expert consensus on vitamin B6 therapeutic use. Pharmaceuticals (Basel). 2025;18(1):12090844.; Medlink....
Neuropathy & Ataxia From Low E
Case series and reviews document that vitamin E deficiency, particularly in fat-malabsorption syndromes, can cause progressive sensory neuropathy and ataxia that may improve with high-dose replacement.
Research: Chan KH et al. Sensory axonopathy associated with vitamin E deficiency. Case Rep Neurol Med. 2021;2021:7971715.; Puri V et...
Hemolytic Anemia & Muscle Weakness
Neurology and pharmacology literature describes neuromuscular and hematologic manifestations of long-standing vitamin E depletion, particularly in children with cholestatic liver disease or genetic disorders of vitamin E transport.
Research: Tomasi LG et al. Reversibility of human myopathy caused by vitamin E deficiency. Neurology. 1979;29(8):1182-1186.; Chen J et...
Side Effects
Common side effects of Fenofibrate, some of which may be related to nutrient depletion
Review
Some common side effects of Fenofibrate include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Back pain
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Skin rash
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight
- Liver problems (rare)
It is important to consult a healthcare provider if any of these side effects are experienced, as they may require medical attention.
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Back pain
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Skin rash
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight
- Liver problems (rare)
It is important to consult a healthcare provider if any of these side effects are experienced, as they may require medical attention.
Get Support
We've curated a list of vetted, recommended individual nutrient third-party supplements.
Shop Third-Party Supplements
Vitamin B6 (50% Pyridoxine and 50% P-5-P)
by Pure Encapsulations
Pure Encapsulations' Vitamin B6 supplement provides a high-quality, hypoallergenic source of pyridoxine HCl to support various physiological functions, including amino acid metabolism and nervous system health.
Strength: 10 mg
Buy now
Vitamin B6 (50% Pyridoxine and 50% P-5-P)
Expert Research
Recommended
Recommended
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
by Pure Encapsulations
Pure Encapsulations' Vitamin C supplement is a high-quality, hypoallergenic product designed to support immune function, collagen production, and antioxidant protection.
Strength: 200 mcg
Buy now
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Expert Research
Recommended
Recommended
Vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol) 33 mg; mixed tocopherols 6.6mg (providing d-gamma, d-delta and d-beta tocopherols)
by Life Extension
The Vitamin E supplement by Life Extension is designed to provide antioxidant support and promote overall health by delivering a potent blend of tocopherols and tocotrienols.
Strength: 50 IU
Buy now
Vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol) 33 mg; mixed tocopherols 6.6mg (providing d-gamma, d-delta and d-beta tocopherols)
Expert Research
Recommended
Recommended
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