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Zetia
Zetia (ezetimibe) is a cholesterol-lowering medication used to reduce high cholesterol levels (specifically LDL cholesterol). It works by decreasing the amount of cholesterol absorbed by the intestines. Zetia is often prescribed in combination with statins or other lipid-lowering medications to help manage hyperlipidemia and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Zetia is commonly used when lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, have not been sufficient to lower cholesterol levels.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for Zetia to lower cholesterol?
Zetia typically starts to lower cholesterol levels within 2 weeks of starting treatment. However, it may take up to 4-6 weeks to see the full effect.
Can Zetia be used alone, or does it need to be combined with other medications?
Zetia can be used alone, but it is often prescribed in combination with statins or other cholesterol-lowering medications for better results.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Zetia?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses.
Can Zetia cause muscle pain like statins?
While muscle pain is more commonly associated with statins, it is possible to experience muscle pain or weakness with Zetia, especially when used in combination with statins. Report any unusual muscle pain to your healthcare provider.
Is Zetia safe for long-term use?
Yes, Zetia is generally safe for long-term use, especially when monitored by your healthcare provider with regular blood tests to check cholesterol levels and liver function.
Comprehensive Drug Guide
How Does Zetia Work?
Zetia works by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine, leading to a reduction in the amount of cholesterol that enters the bloodstream. This mechanism helps lower levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, while also helping to reduce total cholesterol levels. When combined with statins, it enhances the overall cholesterol-lowering effect by both reducing cholesterol absorption and limiting the liver's production of cholesterol.
What is Zetia Used For?
Common Dosages
- 10 mg tablet: Taken once daily, with or without food.
Typical Dosing
- For high cholesterol: The recommended dose is 10 mg once daily. It can be taken with or without food and may be combined with a statin or other lipid-lowering medications for added benefit.
Typical Dosing
FDA Approved Indications
- Primary hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol)
- Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (a genetic disorder that causes extremely high cholesterol)
- Homozygous sitosterolemia (a rare inherited condition where plant sterols accumulate in the blood)
Off-Label Uses
Who Shouldn't Take Zetia?
- Active liver disease or unexplained elevated liver enzymes, especially when taken with a statin
- Known hypersensitivity to ezetimibe or any component of the formulation
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding (when combined with a statin)
Advice From The Pharmacist
- Zetia can be taken at any time of the day, with or without food, but try to take it at the same time each day for consistency.
- If you are prescribed Zetia with a statin, take both medications as directed. However, if you are taking bile acid sequestrants (such as cholestyramine), take Zetia at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after to avoid interference with absorption.
- Continue following your prescribed diet, exercise plan, and lifestyle changes along with taking Zetia to maximize its cholesterol-lowering effects.
- Routine blood tests may be needed to monitor liver function, especially if Zetia is taken with a statin.
- Report any unusual muscle pain or weakness to your healthcare provider, especially if you are taking Zetia with a statin.
Side Effects of Zetia
Common Side Effects
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Joint pain
- Sinusitis
Uncommon/Severe Side Effects
- Muscle pain or weakness (especially when combined with a statin)
- Liver enzyme abnormalities
- Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
Risks and Warnings of Zetia
- Muscle Pain: When taken with a statin, there is a small risk of muscle pain or rhabdomyolysis (a serious condition where muscle tissue breaks down).
- Liver Dysfunction: Zetia, especially when combined with other cholesterol-lowering medications, may cause elevated liver enzymes. Periodic monitoring of liver function is recommended.
- Pregnancy: Zetia is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially when taken with a statin, as statins are contraindicated during pregnancy.
Interactions with Zetia
Common Drug Interactions
- Statins: Zetia is often combined with statins for enhanced cholesterol-lowering effects. However, the risk of side effects like muscle pain or liver issues may increase when these drugs are taken together.
- Bile acid sequestrants: Medications such as cholestyramine or colesevelam can interfere with the absorption of Zetia. Take Zetia at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after taking bile acid sequestrants.
- Cyclosporine: Taking Zetia with cyclosporine may increase the levels of both drugs in the bloodstream, leading to higher risks of side effects.
Alternatives to Zetia
- Statins (e.g., atorvastatin, simvastatin): Often used as first-line treatment for high cholesterol by reducing the liver's production of cholesterol.
- PCSK9 inhibitors (e.g., alirocumab, evolocumab): Injectable medications used to lower LDL cholesterol, particularly in people with familial hypercholesterolemia or those who cannot tolerate statins.
- Bile acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine): Drugs that bind to bile acids in the intestines, reducing the amount of cholesterol absorbed from the diet.
- Fibrates (e.g., fenofibrate): Medications used to lower triglycerides and, to a lesser extent, LDL cholesterol.
