Zetia (Ezetimibe ) 10mg tablets Vytorin

Uses

Ezetimibe is used along with a low cholesterol/low fat diet and exercise to help lower cholesterol in the blood. Ezetimibe may be used alone or with other drugs (such as "statins" or fibrates). Ezetimibe works by reducing the amount of cholesterol your body absorbs from your diet. Reducing cholesterol may help prevent strokes and heart attacks.

How to use Zetia

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking ezetimibe and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily with or without food.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
If taking a bile acid sequestrant (such as cholestyramine, colestipol), take ezetimibe at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after taking the bile acid sequestrant. These products may bind to ezetimibe, preventing your body from fully absorbing the drug.
Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.
It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high cholesterol do not feel sick. It may take up to 2 weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug.

Side Effects

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
This drug may increase the risk of liver damage (when taken with a "statin") or muscle damage when taken with a fibrate or "statin". 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, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine), muscle pain/tenderness/weakness (especially with fever or unusual tiredness).
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

Precautions

Before taking ezetimibe, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval