Ezetimibe Side Effects, Dosage, Uses, and Warnings
Ezetimibe is a prescription medication available as the brand name drug Ezetrol. When mixed with simvastatin, it is sold as the brand name drug Inegy. Both of these medications are useful in lowering LDL cholesterol. In this shrot article, we discuss ezetimibe side effects, ezetimibe uses, ezetimibe warnings, and dosage for ezetimibe.
Ezetimibe Side Effects
Ezetimibe may cause side effects. Some side effects are more common and serious than others.
Common Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Ezetimibe may include:
- Drowsiness
- Diarrhea
- Joint pain
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
If these side effects are mild, they may disappear within a few days. If you have stopped taking your medication and the effects are still present, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Serious Side Effects
Other side effects of ezetimibe are more serious. Call your doctor immediately if you are experiencing any of these serious side effects.
- Hives
- Rash
- Itching
- Hoarseness
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Loss of appetite
- Pain in upper stomach
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Muscle pain
- Fever
- Chills
What is Ezetimibe?
Ezetimibe is a medication used to lower total cholesterol levels and levels of LDL cholesterol in the body. It is used alongside a low-fat diet and an exercise regime to lower cholesterol in the blood and body. In this article we discuss the uses, dosage, side effects and interactions of ezetimibe.
Ezetimibe Brand Name
The brand names of ezetimibe include: Ezetrol
What Is Ezetimibe Used For?
Ezetimibe is useful in lowering total cholesterol levels in the body, as well as levels of low density lipoprotein cholesterol in the body. Ezetimibe is often used by patients who have trouble controlling their cholesterol levels through other methods, such as diet or exercise. Ezetimibe has not been shown, however, to prevent heart disease or heart attacks.
How Does Ezetimibe Work?
Ezetimibie works by reducing the amount of cholesterol your body takes in from food. It partially blocks the absorption of cholesterol that takes place in the small intestine.
How Long Does Ezetimibe Stay In Your System?
Ezetimibe is reported to stay in your system for only up to 22 hours.
Ezetimibe Dosage
Dosage of ezetimibe may depend on many factors including age, weight, height, medical history, and other medications you are currently taking. Ezetimibe is available as an immediate release tablet.
Adult Dosage For Hyperlipidemia
10 mg taken orally once a day
Adult Dosage For Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia
10 mg taken orally once a day
Adult Dosage For Sitosterolemia
10 mg taken orally once a day
Pediatric Dosage For Hyperlipidemia
10 years or older: 10 mg taken orally once a day
Pediatric Dosage For Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia
10 years or older: 10 mg taken orally once a day
Pediatric Dosage For Sitosterolemia
10 years or older: 10 mg taken orally once a day
Ezetimibe Warnings
Taking ezetimibe can lead to complications within the liver and certain muscles. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms.
Liver Problem Warning
Do not take ezetimibe if you have moderate or sever liver problems or liver disease. A weakened liver can cause ezetimibe to stay in your system for longer than it is supposed to, which may lead to unwanted side effects.
Severe Muscle Problems Warning
Ezetimibe may cause unexplained muscle weakness and pain in some people. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience muscle pain or muscle weakness. Your doctor may perform some tests to determine the extent of the muscle problem.
What Are Ezetimibe Interactions?
Ezetimibe has few known interactions with other medications. Keep a list of all products you use and share it with your doctor or pharmacist. Do not stop, start, or change the dosage of any medications without doctor approval.
Statin Cholesterol Medicine Interaction
In some cases, ezetimibe can interact with statin cholesterol medicines to produce harmful effects. Avoid taking medications like Zocor, Lipitor, and Crestor at the same time as ezetimibe.
Ezetimibe Side Effects, Dosage, Side Effects, Uses, and Warnings: Summary
Ezetimibe is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the body and control levels of low density lipoprotein cholesterol.
Ezetimibe is available as an immediate release tablet. It can be useful for people who struggle controlling their cholesterol levels through other means like diet and exercise.
