For a patient experiencing weight plateau after losing weight, what intervention is preferred if triglycerides remain elevated?

When addressing a patient's weight plateau accompanied by elevated triglycerides, the appropriate intervention focuses on the need to actively manage the lipid levels while considering the patient's overall health strategy.

In this scenario, the elevation of triglycerides suggests that lifestyle changes alone may not be sufficient to achieve desired lipid control. Initiating pharmacotherapy can be beneficial in such cases, particularly when lifestyle modifications plateau. Fenofibrate is one of the fibrates that is well-established in its ability to lower triglycerides effectively. It works by enhancing the clearance of triglyceride-rich particles from the plasma.

While continuing lifestyle changes is important, it may not adequately address the issue of high triglycerides alone, particularly if there's a significant risk for cardiovascular events. Bempedoic acid primarily targets LDL cholesterol reduction rather than specifically focusing on triglyceride levels, making it less optimal as the first choice when triglyceride levels are the main concern. Dietary supplements might provide some benefits, such as omega-3 fatty acids, but they are typically not as robust or reliable as pharmacotherapy in managing significantly elevated triglycerides.

Thus, incorporating fenofibrate as an option is preferred to specifically target and reduce triglyceride levels effectively, helping the patient manage their lipid profile while working on maintaining a healthy weight.