Lipofen® is a novel, patented formulation of the active ingredient fenofibrate, which is used in the treatment of hyperlipidemia, a cholesterol disorder. Hyperlipidemia is a condition characterized by high levels of low-density lipoprotein ("LDL") cholesterol and/or triglycerides (a type of fat found in the blood). Fenofibrate is known to lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and increase high-density lipoproteins ("HDL"), known as "good cholesterol". Fibrates have proven to be superior in lowering triglycerides and raising HDL levels.
Lipofen® targets a large and growing market. According to IMS, the hyperlipidemia market in the U.S. alone exceeds US$19 billion and is made up of four primary groups of drugs: statins, fibrates, prescription DHA/EPA and the prescription niacin market. The use of fenofibrates has grown in recent years, with increased patient demand expected to continue. The market for existing fenofibrate formulations in the U.S. exceeded US$2 billion during 2010, with prescriptions growing 6.4% over the previous year.