Ezetimibe

What is it?

Composition

Ezetimibe contains an active ingredient responsible for its effectiveness. It blocks the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines, thereby reducing overall blood cholesterol levels. The drug is available in tablet form, making it convenient to use.

• Active ingredient: ezetimibe.
• Filler: lactose.
• Additional substances to ensure stability and absorption.
• Binder for tablet formation.
• Tablet coating to improve swallowing.

All these elements make up the drugs formula, ensuring its action and effectiveness in combating high cholesterol levels.

How to use?

Ezetimibe should be taken strictly as prescribed by your doctor. It is usually taken once daily at a specific time, which helps maintain stable blood levels and ensures maximum effectiveness.

1. Take the tablet whole with water, regardless of food.
2. Try to take the medication at the same time every day to avoid missing a dose.
3. If you miss a dose, follow the restart instructions, avoiding doubling the dose.
4. Do not exceed the recommended dosage without consulting your doctor.
5. Additional tests may be needed to monitor your liver function and cholesterol levels during treatment.

Carefully following your doctors instructions will minimize risks and maximize the benefits of treatment.

How does it work?

Ezetimibe works by preventing the absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine. This is achieved through a specific mechanism of action of the active substance, which prevents cholesterol from penetrating cell membranes. This reduces overall cholesterol levels in the blood.

This process, in turn, helps reduce the formation of fatty deposits on the arterial walls, which reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Ezetimibe can be used alone or in combination with other medications for enhanced effectiveness, especially if statins are not producing the desired results or are not suitable for the patient due to medical reasons.

Indications

Ezetimibe is recommended for certain medical conditions associated with elevated cholesterol levels. Its primary indications include several specific diseases and conditions.

• Hyperlipidemia – a general increase in blood lipids.
• Hypercholesterolemia – high cholesterol levels that cannot be controlled by other methods.
• Sitosterolemia – a rare inherited disorder associated with the accumulation of plant sterols in the body.
• Statin intolerance – in the presence of contraindications or side effects while taking statins.
• Atherosclerosis prevention – lowering cholesterol levels to prevent plaque formation in blood vessels.

These indications emphasize the need for an individualized approach to treatment, taking into account all the patients specific needs.

Contraindications

There are certain contraindications for the use of ezetimibe, which may make its use unsafe. These include a number of medical conditions and certain restrictions related to age and other factors.

• Allergic reaction to ezetimibe or any of the excipients.
• Active liver disease, especially severe or moderate.
• Use of the drug is not recommended for children under 10 years of age.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding, especially when used concomitantly with statins.
• Combination with certain statins if the patient has active liver disease.

These restrictions must be considered before starting treatment to avoid possible negative health consequences.

Side effects

Like any medicine, ezetimibe can cause side effects. Some are quite common, while others are less common and require immediate medical attention.

• Hypersensitivity reactions, such as hives or facial swelling.
• Gastrointestinal upset, including diarrhea.
• Cold symptoms, such as runny nose or sore throat.
• Joint or muscle pain associated with taking ezetimibe with statins.
• Rare but serious allergic reactions with difficulty breathing.

Regular monitoring of the patients condition and communication with a doctor will help promptly identify and manage side effects.