Ezetimibe

What is Ezetimibe?

Ezetimibe lowers cholesterol by reducing absorption of dietary and biliary cholesterol in the small intestine.

How it works

It blocks the NPC1L1 transporter on intestinal cells, decreasing cholesterol delivery to the liver. The liver then draws more LDL from the blood to compensate.

Common uses

• Add-on to statins when LDL goals are not met
• Alternative for patients who cannot tolerate higher statin doses
• Treatment of familial hypercholesterolemia alongside other agents

Monitoring & Safety

• Labs: Follow lipid panel components ldl, hdl, total-cholesterol, and triglycerides to gauge response.
• Generally well tolerated; occasional stomach upset or fatigue.

Dosing (简要)

• Standard dose 10 mg once daily, with or without food.
• Often paired with a statin; recheck lipids in 4-12 weeks.

Drug interactions

• Bile acid sequestrants can reduce absorption; take ezetimibe 2 hours before or 4 hours after them.
• Cyclosporine can raise ezetimibe levels; monitor as directed.

Patient tips

• Keep taking even if you feel well; cholesterol changes are silent.
• Maintain heart-healthy eating and exercise for best results.
• If you have persistent diarrhea or muscle pain, let your clinician know.

When to contact your doctor

• Unexplained muscle pain or weakness when used with a statin.
• Severe abdominal pain or yellowing of skin/eyes.
• Any allergic swelling or trouble breathing.

Medical Disclaimer: 本内容仅供教育用途，不能替代专业医疗建议。