Fibrates are widely prescribed as hypolipidemic drugs and are considered as
safe. We report the case of a 69 year-old woman who probably developed a m
ajor allergic reaction following a Fenofibrate prescription (generic form)
of 300 mg per day. Clinical features included asthenia, hyperthermia (40.5
degreesC) and slight muscular pain. Biological abnormalities were mildly el
evated muscular enzymes and pancytopenia rapidly developed. All bacteriolog
ic, virologic, immune and radiologic investigations were normal. Evolution
was spontaneously favorable with Fenofibrate withdrawal. This is the first
reported case of major fever and pancytopenia following a Fenofibrate presc
ription. Adverse effects of Fenofibrate are briefly reviewed and their usua
l favorable outcomes following drug removal are outlined.