Zetia

Generic name: Ezetimibe

What is Zetia?

Zetia is a cholesterol-lowering medicine that works in your small intestines to block the absorption of cholesterol. Zetia, plus a low-saturated fat diet, is used to reduce your cholesterol either alone or in combination with other medicines, such as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors or fenofibrates. Zetia may be prescribed for patients who have high cholesterol due to their diet, lifestyle, or if it runs in their family.

What is the most important information I should know about Zetia?

Zetia may cause injury to your liver, especially if you are taking Zetia along with other cholesterol-lowering medications. You should use caution when taking Zetia if you have any type of liver problems. Rarely, it may cause a serious muscle disorder. You should tell your doctor right away if you feel any muscle weakness, pain, or tenderness.

Zetia should not take the place of exercise and a healthy low-fat, low-cholesterol diet to lower your cholesterol. Follow the diet and exercise program given to you by your healthcare provider.

Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to Zetia; this drug may cause dizziness. This effect may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines.

Who should not take Zetia?

You should not take Zetia if you are allergic or sensitive to any of its ingredients. You should also not take Zetia in combination with another cholesterol-lowering medication called a HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor if you have active liver disease, if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or if you are nursing.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Zetia?

Mention all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Zetia. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver problems, hypothyroidism, a history of muscle weakness or tenderness after taking cholesterol-lowering medications, diabetes, or if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or if you are nursing.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual dose is 10 milligrams (mg) taken once a day.

How should I take Zetia?

Zetia should be taken at the same time every day and can be taken with or without food. If you are also taking another cholesterol-lowering medication called a bile acid sequestrant, you should take your Zetia dose at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after it. Zetia may be taken at the same time as a statin or fenofibrate.

Continue to use Zetia even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.

Take the medication as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change your dose or stop taking the medication without speaking to your doctor.

What should I avoid while taking Zetia?

You should avoid foods high in saturated fat or overall fat content while taking Zetia, to ensure you get the maximum cholesterol-lowering benefits from it.

Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to Zetia; this drug may cause dizziness. This effect may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines.

Do not change your dose or stop taking the medication without speaking to your doctor.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Zetia?

If Zetia is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Zetia with the following: cholestyramine, cyclosporine, fibrates, fenofibrate, gemfibrozil, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, or warfarin.

What are the possible side effects of Zetia?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: back pain, chest pain, diarrhea, headache, joint pain, muscle pain, upper respiratory tract infection, sinus inflammation, tiredness

You should tell your doctor right away if you feel any muscle weakness, pain, or tenderness. These may be symptoms of a more serious side effect of Zetia.

Can I receive Zetia if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Zetia during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Zetia?

If you miss a dose of Zetia, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Zetia?

Store at room temperature away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom.