Ezetimibe

Overview

It lowers LDL by a moderate amount and is well tolerated.

What it's used for

• High LDL cholesterol, with or without a statin

How to take it

• Take it once a day, with or without food.
• Take it at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after bile acid binders.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

• Diarrhea
• Joint pain
• Stuffy nose

Warnings

• Liver tests may be checked when used with a statin.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

• Cyclosporine raises its level.
• Fibrates may raise gallstone risk.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Talk with your provider; if combined with a statin, it's usually stopped in pregnancy.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

• High cholesterol