by Sarah Millman

Created on: August 27, 2011

What is Zetia?

Zetia (generic name ezetimibe); is a medication that is used to lower cholesterol. It is often used in combination with a drug from a group of medications called statins, (eg. Lipitor, generic name atorvastatin) which are also designed to reduce cholesterol. Lowering high cholesterol levels is necessary to reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems such as stroke and heart attack from occurring. Medications to lower cholesterol should always be used in conjunction with dietary changes aimed at reducing the amount of cholesterol in a patient’s diet.

How does it work?

Zetia reduces the amount of cholesterol in the blood by reducing the absorption of cholesterol from the digestive system. This reduces the amount of cholesterol that gets delivered to the liver (which it needs to function), prompting the liver to remove cholesterol from the bloodstream to replenish its supply.

Who should avoid using Zetia?

Zetia is best avoided, or used with extreme caution in patients with liver impairment. The medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. There is limited data regarding its use in children, and a specialist would need to supervise its use in this situation. How should it be taken? Zetia is administered as a once daily dose in most circumstances. It can be taken with or without food.

What are the side effects of Zetia?

More commonly reported side effects of Zetia include headache and diarrhoea. These are most likely to occur during the first few weeks of therapy, and generally subside with continuing treatment. It may also cause muscle and joint aches, particularly if it is being taken in conjunction with a statin. Other less common side effects include dizziness, cold symptoms (sore throat, runny nose) and sneezing. If any of these side effects are severe, or they do not abate after a few weeks of treatment, talk to your doctor about other treatment options.

Rare side effects that may occur as a result of Zetia use include allergic reactions – which may range in severity from a rash to swelling of the throat; and liver damage. Liver damage can be detected from having regular blood tests to monitor liver function, however if you notice any yellowing of the skin and eyes, light coloured stools, dark urine and itchy skin you should tell your doctor immediately.

Are there any drug interactions?

Zetia interacts with very few medications. If you are taking other medications for cholesterol called fenofibrate (TriCor) or gemfibrozil (Lopid); your doctor may need to monitor you for increased side effects. Furthermore there are other types of cholesterol medication that can effect the absorption of Zetia. If you take cholestyramine (Questran), colesevelam (WellChol), or colestipol (Colestid), be sure to take it 4 hours before or 2 hours after Zetia to ensure you get the maximum absorption (and therefore best effectiveness) of Zetia.

For all medications, if you have any further questions always talk to your pharmacist or doctor.

For more information on Zetia, visit Medline Plus- Ezetimibe. 

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