Zetia

Zetia – a new way to lower your cholesterol

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a type of fat that is a vital component part of the body, and is found in the blood. Although the name is usually associated with a negative reputation, it helps to maintain a healthy body as long as the amount is properly regulated. Also, there are two different types of Cholesterol which are known as LDL and HDL cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is called “bad” cholesterol because it can build up in the walls of the arteries and form fatty deposits called plaque. This accounts for over 75% of the total cholesterol in the bloodstream. Over time, this can accumulate and cause a narrowing of the arteries. This narrowing can slow or block blood flow to your heart, brain, and other organs. High levels of LDL cholesterol is a major cause of heart disease and stroke. HDL cholesterol is called “good” cholesterol because it keeps the bad LDL cholesterol from building up in the arteries. Zetia helps to reduce the bad cholesterol, which in turn can help in avoiding serious problems such as heart attack and stroke.

Important information about Zetia

Zetia, also known by the name ezetimibe, is a medical drug that helps reduce the amount of cholesterol absorbed by the body. The main difference between Zetia and other Cholesterol drug treatments is that this medication works in the digestive tract, whereas ordinary cholesterol-lowering medicines, (statins), work mainly with the liver.

This gives Zetia a unique advantage by blocking the absorption of cholesterol that comes from food. It is also complementary to other forms of cholesterol management such as diet, exercise and taking statin drugs.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider?

You should tell your doctor about any prescription and non-prescription medicines you are taking or plan to take, including natural or herbal remedies. Zetia is a prescription medicine and should not be taken by people who are allergic to any of its ingredients – Ezetimibe or the non-active ingredients – Croscarmellose sodium, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, povidone, and sodium lauryl sulfate.

It can be taken on its own or with a Statin. However, Statins should not be taken by women who are nursing or pregnant or who may become pregnant, or by anyone with liver problems. If you have ever had liver problems or are pregnant or nursing, your doctor will advise if taking Zetia on its own is recommended. Your doctor may do blood tests to check your liver before you commence a treatment program, and also during the treatment.

How should I take the drug?

Zetia should be taken once per day, with or without food. It may be easier to remember to take the dose if it is done it at the same time every day, such as with breakfast, dinner, or at bedtime.

You should consult with your doctor if you also take another medicine to reduce your cholesterol, to verify whether the two can be taken at the same time.

If you forget to take the medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, do not take more than one dose of Zetia per day.

Continue to follow a cholesterol-lowering diet while taking Zetia. Ask your doctor if you need special dietary information.

Keep taking the medicine unless your doctor tells you to stop. This is important even if you do not feel unwell

See your doctor regularly to check your cholesterol level and to check for side effects.

Zetia side effects

Some Patients have reported side effects while taking Zetia, but generally any side effects are mild. The most commonly experienced reactions are:

• Allergic reactions (which may require treatment right away) including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and/or throat that may cause
• Breathing or swallowing difficulty
• Rash or Hives
• Joint pain
• Muscular aches
• Liver problems
• Inflammation of the pancreas
• Nausea and dizziness
• Depression
• Gallstones or inflammation of the gall bladder.

While using Zetia, there is an increased chance of myopathy and you should promptly report any unexplained muscle pains, weakness, or tenderness to your doctor.

It is important that you notify your physician at once if you experience any of the following serious side effects

Very rarely, patients have experienced severe muscle problems while taking this medicine, but usually when it was used in combination with a statin drug. These muscle problems can be serious, and can lead to muscle breakdown which may result in kidney damage.

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