Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: EZETIMIBE - ORAL (eh-ZET-ih-mibe)
BRAND NAME(S): Zetia
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used either alone or with other drugs (e.g., HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors or "statins"), along with a low cholesterol/low fat diet, to help lower cholesterol in the blood. Reducing cholesterol helps prevent strokes and heart attacks. Ezetimibe works by reducing the amount of cholesterol your body absorbs from your diet.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth usually once daily with or without food. If you are also taking a bile acid sequestrant (e.g., cholestyramine, colestipol, colesevelam), take ezetimibe at least 2 hours before or at least 4 hours after the bile acid sequestrant. It may take up to 2 weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high cholesterol do not feel sick.
SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, headache, diarrhea, back pain may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: chest pain, fatigue, stomach pain. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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