Ezetimibe

 Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand name:

Ezetrol

Popular combinations:

Inegy

Drug group:

Lipid-lowering drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Ezetimibe is a lipid-lowering drug that is used to treat hypercholesterolaemia (high blood cholesterol levels) in people at risk of developing heart disease:

• It is usually prescribed in combination with a statin
• Sometimes prescribed alone in people who cannot tolerate statins

How does it work?

Ezetimibe reduces absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine

How should it be used?

Treatment of high cholesterol includes a low fat diet and regular exercise

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

10mg taken once daily

How quickly will it start to work?

Two weeks                          

How long will the effects last?

24 hours                  

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor        
                            

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No known problems, but regular blood tests may be done including cholesterol levels, liver and muscle function.

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: headache, fatigue, abdominal pain, diarrhoea
• Less common: nausea, joint pain
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: bleeding/bruising, rash, swelling of the face/tongue, muscle pain/weakness/tenderness (higher risk of muscle problems when combined with a statin)

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver problems, lactose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption
• Other medicines: statins, fibrates, colestyramine, ciclosporin, warfarin
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not usually prescribed, safety not established
• Children: Not recommended under 10 years
• Over 60: Increased likelihood of adverse effects
• Driving and hazardous work: No special problems
• Alcohol: No special problems