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Tricor vs. Crestor

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Fenofibrate (brand names: Fenoglide, Trilipix, Antara, Tricor, Lipofen) and rosuvastatin (brand names: Crestor, Ezallor Sprinkle) are both used to manage cholesterol levels, but they belong to different classes of medications. Fenofibrate is a fibrate that primarily lowers triglycerides and raises "good" cholesterol (HDL), while rosuvastatin is a statin that mainly lowers "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and also raises HDL. Fenofibrate is available in various forms, including capsules and tablets, and can be taken at any time of day. Rosuvastatin, available as a generic, can be taken with or without food and is also available in a sprinkle form for those who have trouble swallowing pills. Common side effects of fenofibrate include liver problems and stomach pain, whereas rosuvastatin commonly causes muscle pain and headaches. Both medications can cause serious muscle damage and liver issues, but rosuvastatin may also raise blood sugar levels. Neither medication is recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Fenofibrate

 

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Rosuvastatin

(Crestor)

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Summary for Tricor

Prescription only

Fenofibrate (also known as fenofibric acid) is used as an add-on medication to diet to treat high triglycerides and high cholesterol. Common side effects include liver problems, breathing problems, and stomach pain. Fenofibrate includes a warning about avoiding statin medications because of the risk of muscle damage, and also because it doesn't add any extra benefit in reducing the risk of heart problems compared to taking a statin alone. Fenofibrate is available in many brand names (e.g., Antara, Tricor, Trilipix), generics, and dosage forms (e.g., micronized capsules, delayed-release capsules, tablets).

Indications for Tricor

Pros and Cons for Tricor

Pros

  • Lowers triglycerides and LDL ("bad" cholesterol) while raising HDL ("good" cholesterol)
  • Only needs to be taken once daily
  • Some brands can be taken with or without food
  • Some brands available as lower-cost generics

Cons

  • Need to take it alongside a low-fat diet; doesn't work well on its own
  • Can cause muscle damage, especially if taken with a statin
  • Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Can't take if you have liver, severe kidney, or gallbladder problems

Common Side Effects for Tricor

Warnings for Tricor

  • Liver damage
  • Muscle damage (myopathy and rhabdomyolysis)
  • Possible effect on the kidneys
  • Allergic reactions
  • Gallstones
  • Pancreatitis
  • Blood clots

Summary for Crestor

Prescription only

Rosuvastatin (Crestor) is a statin. It's used to treat high cholesterol levels in adults and children. It can also help lower the risk heart attack or stroke in people who are at risk for heart-related problems. Rosuvastatin (Crestor) comes as both generic and brand name tablets that are taken by mouth, typically once daily. Brand name Ezallor Sprinkle (rosuvastatin) is an option for people who've trouble swallowing pills. Common side effects of rosuvastatin (Crestor) include muscle pain, joint pain, and headache.

Indications for Crestor

Pros and Cons for Crestor

Pros

  • First-choice cholesterol medication that lowers your risk of heart attack and stroke
  • Can be taken by children as young as 7 years old
  • Sprinkle capsule (Ezallor Sprinkle) can be opened and contents sprinkled over soft food
  • Available as a lower cost, generic form

Cons

  • Not safe to take for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Might lead to liver problems
  • Can cause rhabdomyolysis, a life-threatening muscle problem
  • Might raise blood sugar levels, especially in people who have pre-diabetes

Common Side Effects for Crestor

  • Muscle pain (8-13%)
  • Joint pain (4-10%)
  • Headache (6-9%)
  • Nausea (2-6%)
  • Constipation (up to 5%)

Warnings for Crestor

  • Severe muscle pain and damage
  • Liver problems
  • Higher blood sugar levels
  • Possible harm during pregnancy or breastfeeding

Prices with our coupons for Tricor vs. Crestor

Price Card Drug Icon
Fenofibrate30 tablets / 160mg
$12.69$49.48
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Price Card Drug Icon
Rosuvastatin30 tablets / 20mg
$10.52$56.19
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