Ezetimibe is a drug given to reduce LDL, or "bad" cholesterol. Unlike statin drugs which work in the liver, ezetimibe works in the intestines to prevent the absorption of cholesterol. Ezetimibe is also used in combination with simvistatin to produce the medication Vytorin. Using ezetimibe along with statins lowers the overall amount of cholesterol in the bloodstream.
Most Common Side Effects
All medications have the potential for side effects, which may range from very mild to serious. According to MedlinePlus, most commonly noted side effects of ezetimibe are diarrhea, abdominal pain, upper respiratory tract infection, fatigue, headache, joint pain and pain in the arms or legs. These side effects are usually mild, but should be reported to a health care provider and monitored closely.
Severe Side Effects
Severe side effects are less common, but require immediate medical attention. Severe side effects include trouble breathing or swallowing, chest tightness, dark urine or change in the amount of urine produced, severe stomach or back pain with nausea and vomiting, and yellowing of the eyes or skin. Although not normally life-threatening, hives, rash and itching may be experienced with ezetimible and should be treated promptly.
Other potentially severe side effects include pale stools, depression, muscle pain, and numbness or tingling in arms, legs, feet or hands. Unusual bleeding or bruising, unusual tiredness, vision changes or blurred vision should be reported to a doctor immediately.
Significance
Ezetimibe is prescribed to lower high cholesterol. High cholesterol does not generally produce any signs or symptoms on its own; instead it sets the course for the development of heart disease and stroke later in time. Patients who are prescribed ezetimibe should use the drug in combination with lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, to help lower their overall health risks from high cholesterol.
Drug Interactions
According to Drug Watch, ezetimibe has been shown to have the potential for drug interaction with cyclosporines, fenofibrate and other fibrates, cholestyramine, Coumadin and other anticoagulants. Before taking ezetimibe, the health care provider should review all drugs and medications, including vitamins, herbs and supplements.
Considerations
According to Merck, which manufactures a brand of ezetimibe, no studies have shown ezetimibe to reduce the risk of stroke or heart attack, whether taken alone or in combination with a statin drug. Further studies will be needed to show if ezetimibe offers any benefit besides lowering cholesterol, when it comes to its effect on preventing heart disease and stroke.
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