Ezetimibe, marketed as Zetia, is a prescription drug used to lower cholesterol levels. Zetia stops the cholesterol in food from being absorbed in the intestines. While the manufacturer Schering-Plough claims that the drug helps to decrease cholesterol levels, many doctors disagree and state that statins are more effective at lowering cholesterol, notes "The New York Times." Zetia has a range of side effects. Some of the side effects are serious.
Headache and Dizziness
Headache and dizziness can occur during treatment with Zetia, notes MedlinePlus. These symptoms can be sporadic or ongoing. Notify a doctor if the headache or dizziness interferes with daily activities.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea can be a side effect of Zetia use, notes MedlinePlus. This symptom can be accompanied by fatty stools or stools with a pale color. These symptoms can occur at any time during Zetia treatment.
Exhaustion
Exhaustion can arise while taking Zetia, notes MedlinePlus. It can be accompanied by symptoms that resemble the flu such as fever, chills, sneezing, an inflamed throat and lack of hunger. Muscle pain is another symptom that can arise with exhaustion during Zetia use.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is a serious symptom that can arise during treatment with Zetia. Pancreatitis can cause the heart rate to accelerate, queasiness and vomiting, and strong upper stomach pain that moves to the back, notes RxList.com
Allergic Reaction
Allergic reactions can occur during Zetia use, notes RxList.com. Notify a doctor immediately if allergic symptoms such as hives, swelling of the face or mouth, or problems breathing occur. These symptoms can be life-threatening.
Muscle Pain and Kidney Failure
Muscle pain or lack of strength in the muscles can occur with Zetia use. This symptom can interfere with daily activities. This symptom can change in severity during the course of Zetia treatment. Zetia can also cause skeletal muscle tissue to disintegrate. This can lead to kidney failure, notes RxList.com. Notify a doctor immediately if muscle pain begins while taking Zetia.
Member Comments