US Brand Name: Zetia (Ezetimibe)

Pharmacologic Category: Cholesterol Absorption Inhibitor

Diseases Treated, Dosing, and Treatment Duration:

{Primary hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol)}: 10 mg once daily
{Mixed dyslipidemia}: 10 mg once daily
{Familial hypercholesterolemia}: 10 mg once daily
{Homozygous familial sitosterolemia (phytosterolemia)}: 10 mg once daily

Dosage Forms and Strengths:

Tablets: 10 mg

Administration Instructions:

{Ezetimibe} can be taken with or without food. It can be taken at any time of the day but should be taken consistently at the same time each day.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects:

{Diarrhea} (2.88%): Loose, watery stools {Arthralgia} (1.64%): Joint pain {Sinusitis} (1.47%): Inflammation of the sinuses {Pain in extremity} (1.47%): Pain in limbs

Contraindications:

Hypersensitivity to {ezetimibe} or any component of the formulation Active liver disease or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases

Drug to Drug Interactions:

{Cholestyramine} (Questran): Decreased absorption of ezetimibe; administer ezetimibe at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after cholestyramine {Cyclosporine} (Neoral, Sandimmune): Increased blood levels of ezetimibe; monitor for adverse effects
{Fibrates} (e.g., {Fenofibrate} [Tricor], {Gemfibrozil} [Lopid]): Increased risk of gallstones and myopathy; use with caution

Pregnancy:

There is limited information on the use of {ezetimibe} during pregnancy. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

Breastfeeding:

It is not known if {ezetimibe} is excreted in human milk. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.

Estimated Price for a 30-Day Supply:

The estimated price for a 30-day supply of 10 mg {ezetimibe} tablets with a GoodRx coupon is around $20-$30. Prices may vary depending on the pharmacy and location.

Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.