Ezetimibe: Uses, indications and cautions when using

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Ezetimibe is a medicine used to treat high blood cholesterol and some abnormalities in blood fats. The drug should be used in conjunction with dietary changes and physical activity. There are many forms of Ezetimibe on the market with different concentrations, usually white tablets.

1. What are the effects of Ezetimibe?

Ezetimibe works to help lower blood cholesterol, but requires it to be combined with a low fat/low cholesterol diet and a moderate exercise schedule. Ezetimibe may be used alone or in combination with other medicines (such as statins or fibrates). This medication works by reducing the amount of cholesterol the body absorbs from the diet. Lowering cholesterol can help prevent strokes and heart attacks.

2. How to use Ezetimibe

Read the Drug Information leaflet provided by your pharmacist (if available) before you start taking Ezetimibe and each time a refill is taken. Ask your healthcare provider for details if you have any questions.
Take Ezetimibe as directed by your doctor, usually with a frequency of 1 time / day, with or without food. Dosage is based on each patient's medical condition and response to treatment.
If you are taking a bile acid sequestrant (such as cholestyramine or colestipol), take Ezetimibe at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after using this active ingredient. This is because such products can bind to Ezetimibe, preventing the body from absorbing the drug completely.
Taking Ezetimibe regularly will help you get the most benefit. To avoid missing doses, users should take the medicine at the same time each day.
Continue taking your medicine even if you feel well. Most people with high cholesterol do not feel any symptoms. It may take up to 2 weeks for Ezetimibe to be fully effective.

3. Side effects when taking Ezetimibe

You can rest assured because before prescribing this medicine, your doctor has evaluated the benefit to you to outweigh the risk of side effects. Many people still use Ezetimibe without serious side effects.
Ezetimibe may increase the risk of liver damage (when taken with "statins") or muscle damage when taken with fibrates or "statins". Tell your doctor right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:
Signs of liver problems, such as: Severe stomach/abdominal pain, persistent nausea/vomiting, yellow eyes/skin, dark urine Muscle pain or weakness, especially with fever or unusual tiredness. Serious allergic reactions are very rare with Ezetimibe. Get medical attention right away if you notice the warning signs of a very serious allergic reaction, including:
Skin rash Itching or swelling of the tongue, face or throat Extreme dizziness find it hard to breathe. Also, contact your doctor or pharmacist if you notice any other side effects not listed above.

4. Caution when using Ezetimibe

Before using this medicine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to Ezetimibe or any other allergic condition. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which may cause allergic reactions or other medical problems.
Healthcare workers also need to know your medical history before prescribing Ezetimibe, especially liver disease.
Before undergoing medical or dental surgery, you also need to inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking (including prescription drugs, OTC drugs, and herbs).
During pregnancy, Ezetimibe should only be used when absolutely necessary. Pregnant women should discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with their doctor. It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk, so consulting your doctor before breast-feeding is essential.

5. Some other notes when using Ezetimibe

5.1. Drug interactions

Drug interactions can change the way Ezetimibe works or increase the risk of serious side effects. Patients need to make a list of all the medicines they are taking and share it with their doctor/pharmacist. Do not arbitrarily start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without prior approval from a medical professional.

5.2. Overdose and missed dose

In case of overdose and severe symptoms such as unconsciousness or difficulty breathing, call 911 immediately.
Conversely, when you forget to take a dose, just take it as soon as you remember. You are allowed to skip the missed dose when it is almost time for your next dose. Take your medicine as usual and don't need to double your dose to make up for it.

5.3. Storage

Store Ezetimibe at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Do not store medicine in the bathroom. Dispose of this product properly when it has expired or is no longer needed. Make sure to keep the medicine out of the reach of both children and pets.
Finally, do not arbitrarily share Ezetimibe with others. You should also have periodic tests - such as cholesterol levels - to monitor your progress or check for side effects. When Ezetimibe is co-administered with a statin agent, liver function tests should be performed to monitor for side effects.
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Reference source: webmd.com