Zetia (generic name ezetimibe) is a cholesterol-lowering medication available as a 10-milligram tablet. Zetia is used to treat high cholesterol either on its own or with another medication such as a statin. Zetia inhibits absorption of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) in the intestinal tract, thereby helping to lower LDL levels in the blood. Zetia is most effective when people also follow a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet.
General Adverse Reactions
People taking Zetia may experience generalized fatigue. This side effect can be minimized by taking Zetia before bed. Joint and muscle pain are relatively common side effects and may be more severe when Zetia is taken with a statin medication. However, these adverse side effects can indicate more severe complications such as myopathy (skeletal muscle toxicity) and rhabdomyolysis (rapid breakdown of skeletal muscle). Patients taking Zetia should report muscle and joint pain to a physician so as to prevent possible liver dysfunction and kidney failure. To monitor for these complications, liver and kidney function tests should be conducted at the onset of treatment and periodically throughout treatment.
Hypersensitivity reactions to Zetia have been reported. If symptoms such as a rash, itching, angioedema (generalized swelling internally and externally), and anaphylaxis occur, patients should stop Zetia immediately and seek medical care.
Central Nervous System Side Effects
Zetia may cause dizziness and headache. Continued or severe headache should be reported to a physician.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
A common side effect of Zetia (ezetimibe) is diarrhea. Abdominal pain has also been reported. If these symptoms persist or become severe, patients should see their doctor.
Respiratory System Side Effects
Zetia commonly causes upper respiratory tract infections. Pharyngitis (pain and swelling in the back of the throat) and sinusitis are other common adverse reactions. The incidence of upper respiratory tract infections increases with combined use of Zetia and a statin. Symptoms of a respiratory infection such as nasal discharge, cough, sore throat and fever should be reported to a physician.
Hematologic Side Effects
Zetia has been reported in post marketing to cause thrombocytopenia (decreased platelet count), which increases a patient's risk of bleeding. Blood work should be performed to obtain a baseline hemoglobin and hematocrit level, and should be repeated throughout treatment.
References
- The National Institute of Health Daily Med Sheets
- Pearson Nurse's Drug Guide 2010; Wilson, B. A., Shannon, T. M., & Shields, K. M.; 2010.
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