Zetia (generic name: Ezetimibe; brand name: Ezetrol) is an anti-hyperlipidemic medication which is used to lower cholesterol levels.

Zetia is used for treating high blood cholesterol along with a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet. It is also used to treat high blood sitosterol and campesterol along with diet therapy.

Zetia is unique in the way it helps block the absorption of cholesterol that comes from food.

Zetia acts by decreasing cholesterol absorption in the intestine.

Zetia may be used alone when other cholesterol-lowering medications are not tolerated, or together with statins (e.g. ezetimibe/simvastatin) when cholesterol levels are unable to be controlled on statins alone.

Recommendations

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Take Zetia exactly as directed.

Zetia is usually taken once a day with or without food. Taking Zetia at the same time each day will help you remember to take it.

If you also take a bile acid sequestrant (eg, cholestyramine, colesevelam, colestipol), do not take it within 4 hours before or 2 hours after taking Zetia. Check with your doctor if you have questions.

Avoid drinking too much alcohol while you are being treated with Zetia. Alcohol can also increase your cholesterol levels. Continue to follow a cholesterol-lowering diet while taking Zetia.

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

If you do miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember and continue taking it at the usual times. If it is nearly time for your next dose, leave out the missed dose, never take two doses at the same time to make up.

Keep your tablets at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture.

Precautions

Before taking Zetia, tell your doctor if:

you are allergic to any medicines;
you have or have ever had liver disease;
you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.

Ingredients

Active ingredient: ezetimibe.